Aadhaar cards have become super important these days. Whether you’re opening a bank account or checking into a hotel, Aadhaar is pretty much required as ID proof. Nowadays, a lot of tasks can’t be completed without it. However, with its significance, there’s also a rise in misuse. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) regularly warns people to be cautious about Aadhaar-related fraud. To enhance security, they’ve introduced the option of a masked Aadhaar.
The masked Aadhaar card, issued by UIDAI, is a bit different from the regular one and offers more security. While the standard Aadhaar card displays all 12 digits, the masked version only shows the last four digits. The first eight digits are replaced with ‘XXXX-XXXX’, keeping your Aadhaar number hidden from prying eyes.
Where can you use it?
The masked Aadhaar card is fully valid and recognized by UIDAI. You can use it anywhere the regular Aadhaar card is accepted. UIDAI encourages people to present a masked Aadhaar card instead of a photocopy of the regular one to help prevent misuse.
Here’s how to download Masked Aadhaar
1. Go to myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in and select the Login option.
2. After entering the Aadhaar number and captcha code, click on Send OTP.
3. An OTP will be sent to the number linked to your Aadhaar, enter it and click on Login.
4. Select Download Aadhaar from the Services section.
5. In the Review Your Demographic Data section, select the option of Do you want a masked Aadhaar.
6. Then click on Download.
7. The masked Aadhaar will be downloaded in PDF format.
