Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped to your permanent 12-digit Aadhaar number. It was introduced by UIDAI to enhance privacy and data security. Instead of sharing your permanent Aadhaar number with every telecom operator, bank, or hotel, you can share this Virtual ID.
When an agency performs KYC using the VID, they get the necessary confirmation (like Name and Address) but they never get to know your actual Aadhaar number. This ensures that your master ID remains safe from potential data leaks or misuse.
What Does Aadhaar Virtual ID Mean?
VID is a privacy firewall. It acts as an alias for your Aadhaar.
- Format: 16-digit number (e.g., 1234-5678-9012-3456).
- Validity: It is valid until you generate a new one. The moment you generate a new VID, the old one expires.
- Usage: It can be used for e-KYC services just like the Aadhaar number.
Why Aadhaar VID is Important
In the digital age, sharing your unique identity number everywhere is risky.
- Prevents Profiling: Since the VID can be changed, agencies cannot build a permanent profile of your activities by tracking one single number.
- Reduced Risk: Even if a database of VIDs is hacked, the data is useless because the VIDs can be revoked by the user instantly.
- Mandatory Acceptance: All Authentication User Agencies (AUAs) like banks and telecom companies are mandated to accept VID in place of Aadhaar number.
Where is Aadhaar VID Used?
- e-KYC: For buying SIM cards or opening bank accounts.
- Online Updates: You can use VID to login to the myAadhaar portal.
- Government Services: Accepted in most DBT schemes.
- Download Aadhaar: You can use VID to download your e-Aadhaar if you forgot your Aadhaar number.
How to Find or Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID
You cannot “find” a pre-existing VID; you must generate it.
- Visit UIDAI: Go to the myAadhaar portal (myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in).
- Select VID Generator: Click on the “VID Generator” icon.
- Login/Enter Details: Enter your Aadhaar number and Captcha.
- OTP: Verify with the OTP sent to your registered mobile.
- Action: Select “Generate VID” or “Retrieve VID”.
- Result: The 16-digit VID is sent via SMS to your phone.
Example of VID Usage
Scenario: You are buying a new SIM card. The store asks for Aadhaar.
- Action: You don’t want to give your real number. You quickly generate a VID on your phone.
- Provide: You give the 16-digit VID to the store agent.
- Verification: The agent enters it, you provide your fingerprint, and the KYC is successful. Your real Aadhaar number is never stored by the telecom company.
Common Problems or Errors
- Forgot VID: If you generated one and forgot it, you can simply use the “Retrieve VID” option on the portal.
- Agency Denial: Some older systems or uninformed agents may refuse VID and demand the real Aadhaar. You can insist, as it is your right, or use a Masked Aadhaar.
Important Things to Remember
- There can be only one active VID at a time.
- You can change it as many times as you like.
- It expires only when a new one is generated (or after a specific calendar expiry if set by UIDAI, currently it is until regeneration).
Using VID is a smart way to protect your identity while utilizing services like Aadhaar Lock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many digits is the Aadhaar Virtual ID?
The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) consists of 16 digits. It is different from the 12-digit permanent Aadhaar number.
Is VID mandatory for KYC?
It is not mandatory for you to use it, but it is mandatory for service providers (banks, telcos) to accept it if you choose to provide it instead of your Aadhaar number.
Does VID have an expiry date?
No, the VID remains valid until you generate a new one. Once a new VID is generated, the previous one gets automatically cancelled.
Can I use VID to update my Aadhaar details?
Yes, you can use your Virtual ID to authenticate yourself on the SSUP (Self Service Update Portal) to update address or other details.
Is VID the same as Masked Aadhaar?
No. VID is a random 16-digit number. Masked Aadhaar is a copy of your Aadhaar card where the first 8 digits are hidden (XXXX-XXXX) and only the last 4 digits are visible.