How to use Virtual ID to protect your Aadhaar data?
Posted on: 03/Jul/2018 5:28:39 PM
Aadhar has come up with Virtual ID system for ensuring better privacy towards the user data. With this system, it will be possible to make use of Aadhar details without bring the data open.
Virtual ID - all about it
This Virtual ID is a 16-digit number that will protect Aadhar data. The Aadhar holder can make use of this 16-digit id instead of the original Aadhar number. With this, any kind of personally identifiable information can be kept safe and protected during authentication.
With that, UIDAI can restrict flow of Aadhar data to the leading telecom companies. The companies can make use of this Virtual ID and hence the user data can be masked. Ultimately, it can avoid unnecessary sharing of sensitive user information. As of now, the telecom firms need to incorporate the needed changes for data verification process. There is however huge scope for Virtual ID method for services including banking, and others starting from August 31.
How can the Virtual ID be used for data protection?
The Virtual ID can be generated or any Aadhar holder. This can be done on official UIDAI site and this number can thereafter be used for various types of authentication rather than sharing the 12-digit Aadhar number for the same.
Visit UIDAI website and generate the Virtual ID. There is an option called Aadhar services under which there is an option for generating Virtual ID or VID. Click on it and feed the 12-digit Aadhar number and there is a CAPTCHA to fill. Do that and request for OTP. You will then receive an OTP to the registered mobile number. Feed the OTP and click on Generate VID. You will then get the Virtual ID to your phone.
This does not have any kind of deadline. You can use it for any period of time once you generate initially. It can be used until a new one is created next time. Upon creating a new VID, the old one will turn obsolete. After generating the Virtual ID, there will be no need for the 12 digit Aadhar number for any kind of verification process.
So far, Aadhar is being used by over 121 crore people. The process of authentication differs from one agency to the other. This implementation of Virtual ID shall enforce better privacy and security of user data on Aadhar. It will also bring down the collection of Aadhar details by various random agencies.
