Introduction

Aadhaar has become one of the most important identity proofs for Indian residents. From opening a bank account to getting a mobile SIM card, Aadhaar is used everywhere. But with growing concerns about privacy and misuse of Aadhaar details, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced a feature called Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID).

The Aadhaar Virtual ID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit number that can be used in place of your Aadhaar number for authentication purposes. This blog explains what VID is, why it is safer, and how you can generate and use it effectively.

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What is Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)?

The Aadhaar Virtual ID, or VID, is a random 16-digit number created against your Aadhaar number. Instead of sharing your 12-digit Aadhaar number, you can share the VID for verification.

• It is temporary – you can generate a new VID anytime.
• It is revocable – the old one becomes invalid once a new VID is created.
• It ensures privacy – agencies cannot access your Aadhaar number when VID is used.

For example: If you need to complete e-KYC at a bank, instead of providing your Aadhaar number, you can give the VID. The bank will still verify your identity but won’t get to see your full Aadhaar number.

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Why is Aadhaar Virtual ID Safer?

One of the biggest issues people face is the fear of Aadhaar data misuse. Since Aadhaar contains sensitive personal information, UIDAI introduced VID to enhance security. Here’s why it’s safer:

1. Hides your Aadhaar number – No one sees your original Aadhaar.
2. Temporary by nature – You can generate a new VID anytime.
3. Restricted data sharing – Service providers get only limited details, enough for verification.
4. Prevents misuse – Even if someone gets your VID, it cannot be used after it expires or is regenerated.
5. User-controlled – You have full control over when and how to regenerate it.

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Where Can Aadhaar Virtual ID Be Used?

The Aadhaar Virtual ID can be used almost everywhere Aadhaar authentication is required. Some common examples are:

• Mobile SIM card verification
• Bank account KYC
• PAN-Aadhaar linking
• Government subsidy verification
• Mutual fund and insurance verification
• Passport application process

Basically, wherever Aadhaar authentication is mandatory, VID can act as a safer substitute.

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How to Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)?

Generating VID is simple and can be done in multiple ways. Here are the step-by-step methods:

1. Generate VID via UIDAI Website

1. Visit the official UIDAI website.
2. Go to “Aadhaar Services” → “Virtual ID (VID) Generator.”
3. Enter your Aadhaar number and the captcha code.
4. Click Send OTP – an OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
5. Enter OTP and submit.
6. Your VID will be generated and sent to your registered mobile number.

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2. Generate VID via SMS

You can also generate VID by sending an SMS from your registered mobile number.

• Type: “GVID [last 4 digits of Aadhaar]” and send it to 1947 (UIDAI’s toll-free number).
• You will receive your VID via SMS.

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3. Generate VID via mAadhaar App

1. Download the mAadhaar app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Log in using your Aadhaar and OTP.
3. Go to VID Generator option.
4. Generate and retrieve your Virtual ID easily.

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How to Use Aadhaar Virtual ID?

Once you have your VID, using it is very simple.

1. Provide VID instead of Aadhaar – At any KYC point (banks, telecom, etc.), give the VID instead of Aadhaar.
2. Authenticate with OTP/biometrics – The service provider will authenticate your identity without seeing your Aadhaar number.
3. Regenerate for safety – After completing your transaction, you can generate a new VID for security.

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Key Points to Remember about Aadhaar VID

• A VID is a 16-digit random number linked to Aadhaar.
• It is temporary and can be changed anytime.
• Only one VID is active at a time.
• It ensures data protection by masking your Aadhaar number.
• VID is accepted by all service providers who require Aadhaar-based authentication.

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Benefits of Using Aadhaar Virtual ID

1. Enhanced Privacy – Protects your Aadhaar number from unnecessary exposure.
2. User Control – You can generate or revoke VID anytime.
3. Convenient – Easy to generate via website, SMS, or app.
4. Universal Acceptance – Accepted at banks, telecoms, government services, and more.
5. Free of Cost – No charges for generating VID.

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FAQs about Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)

Q1: Can I have multiple VIDs at once?
No. Only one VID is valid at a time.

Q2: How long is a VID valid?
A VID remains valid until you generate a new one.

Q3: Is it mandatory to use VID?
No, but it is highly recommended for security reasons.

Q4: Can service providers store VID?
No, they cannot store Aadhaar numbers or VIDs. They must use it only for authentication.

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The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a simple yet powerful way to protect your Aadhaar number. It gives you more control over your personal data while still allowing smooth verification wherever Aadhaar is required. With growing concerns about digital security, VID is an excellent step towards protecting privacy without compromising convenience.

If you haven’t tried it yet, generate your Aadhaar VID today through UIDAI’s website, SMS service, or mAadhaar app, and make your Aadhaar usage safer and smarter.