Know the Difference Between Masked Aadhaar and Regular Aadhaar

Since the declaration, the internet got filled with varying opinions talking about whether the aadhaar card keeps an individual’s data safe or not. However, to put a halt on all the speculations, the Unique Identification Authority has come up with the concept of a masked aadhaar.

This acts as an extra security measure that prevents you from disclosing your complete information. Suppose you are stuck in a situation where you have to put forth your aadhaar, but you are not ready to do so. In such a scenario, this masked aadhaar would come to your rescue. Read this post to find out more about the same.

What is Masked Aadhaar?

Putting the masked aadhaar meaning in simple words, with this card, you get an option to mask the initial 8-digits of your aadhaar number while keeping the remaining digits visible. When you download this aadhaar version, your QR code, photo, demographic information and additional details get available.

Basically, this card is signed by UIDAI; hence, you don’t have to stress over its legibility and acceptance. You can use this version whenever you would have to show the aadhaar as your identity proof.

Steps to Get a Masked Aadhaar Card

If you are looking forward to download masked aadhaar, follow these below-mentioned steps:

• Visit the official website of UIDAI
• Choose Download Aadhaar option under Get Aadhaar section

Now, you can follow these methods to download the masked aadhaar.

Method 1: Using Aadhaar Number (Only for Indian Residents)

If you already have your aadhaar card, enter the 12-digit number with full name and the pin code mentioned on your portal.

Method 2: Using Enrolment Number (Only for Indian Residents)

If you don’t have the aadhaar yet, you can use this method as an alternative. With this, you would have to enter the 28-digit number available on the enrolment slip along with full name and the pin code mentioned on your portal.

Method 3: Using Virtual ID

To download your masked aadhaar card, anybody can use this method, including NRIs. Simply you get to enter the virtual ID.

• Once you have selected the method, then tick the box with ‘I want a masked Aadhaar?’ label
• Click Send OTP, and you will receive a code on the registered phone number

• Enter the OTP, and you can access the masked aadhaar

Accessing the Masked Aadhaar

Once you are done with the masked aadhaar card download, you will get to know that it is protected with a password. Now, to open and print this aadhaar, you would have to enter the 8-digit password, which is the initial four letters of your name and your birth year. For instance, if your name is Monika and you were born in 1995, your password will be MONI1995.

How to Use the Masked Aadhaar?

This card can be used for your identity proof if you are travelling via train or a plane. And, if you are staying in a hotel, you can also use this card during booking. However, one thing to ensure is that this card will not be useful when it comes to availing government welfare scheme benefits.

Conclusion

Lastly, what you must note is that a masked e aadhaar comes with varied advantages over a regular card. Unlike a simple card, a masked card doesn’t disclose your information completely. Also, while you can download this card whenever you want, the simple one can only be requested after visiting the aadhaar enrolment centre.