A Masked Aadhaar card is a downloadable or safer version of e-Aadhaar that you can use for verification without exposing your full 12-digit number. In this card, only the last 4 digits are Visible. This is useful when you share your identity proof, such as an Aadhaar card, from hotel check-ins to SIM card registrations.
UIDAI introduced Masked Aadhaar. It is a simple and effective way to protect your identity while still completing necessary verification processes.
For example, if your Aadhaar card number is 1234 5678 9012, then in your masked Aadhaar card, it is only visible as ‘XXXX XXXX 9012’.
This is basic; if you want to know what it is, when to use it, and the straightforward steps to download your own, read on. Keep reading this article.
Key Takeaways
- A Masked Aadhaar card is the safest version of a regular aadhar in which the first 8 digits of your Aadhaar number are hidden, and the last 4 are visible.
- Issued by UIDAI.
- It is a legally valid document for e-KYC verification purposes, where the full number isn’t required, such as when issuing a SIM card or checking into hotels.
- There are no fees to download the Masked Aadhaar; it is a free service provided by UIDAI.
- You must have your mobile number linked to your Aadhaar to receive the OTP for downloading it.
- It is highly recommended for use with private organizations or third-party services to prevent data misuse.
What Exactly Is a Masked Aadhaar Card?
A Masked Aadhaar card is an official version of your e-Aadhaar in which the first eight digits of your 12-digit Aadhaar number are replaced with “XXXX-XXXX”; only the last four digits are visible.
This simple change improves the layer of security. The purpose is to allow you to verify your identity without revealing your full Aadhaar number.
For example, when you check into a hotel or get a new mobile connection, the service provider often needs to confirm your identity and address.
Using a Masked Aadhaar provides them with the necessary proof (your name, address, photo, and the last 4 digits) without exposing your full unique ID.
Why it is different from Regular Aadhaar card- Complete Difference
Regular Aadhaar card: This is the standard identification document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It displays your complete 12-digit unique identification number, along with your demographic and biometric details.
Masked Aadhaar card: This is the version of the e-Aadhaar where the first eight digits of the Aadhaar number are hidden, replaced by characters like ‘xxxx-xxxx’, with only the last four digits visible.
While both are official documents issued by UIDAI, their purpose and security levels differ. Understanding these differences helps you decide which one to use in various situations.
| Difference | Regular Aadhaar | Masked Aadhaar |
| Number Visibility | Displays the complete 12-digit number (e.g., 1234 5678 9012). | Displays only the last 4 digits, masking the first 8 (e.g., xxxx-xxxx-9012). |
| Primary Use Case | For services requiring mandatory e-KYC, like opening bank accounts, getting government subsidies, or investing in mutual funds. | For general identity verification where full disclosure is not necessary, like booking train tickets, checking into hotels, or verifying identity for an online service. |
| Privacy Level | Offers lower privacy as the full number is exposed, increasing the risk of it being stored or misused by third parties. | Offers higher privacy by concealing most of the number, preventing unnecessary collection and potential misuse of your unique ID. |
| Acceptance | Universally accepted and often required for high-value financial and government-linked services. | Legally valid, but some private entities may not be aware of it or may wrongly insist on the full Aadhaar number out of habit. However, UIDAI encourages its use. |
| Example | 1234 5678 9012 | XXXX XXXX 9012 |
Your full Aadhaar number is your complete privacy. If leaked, it can be used for fraud. So you should use a Masked Aadhaar card in the following situations.
- When you are using Online Services and a platform asks you to upload Aadhaar, then use Masked Aadhaar.
- If you open an account online, such as a demat account, with an unknown site, use a masked Aadhaar.
- KYC verification: Aadhaar proof is required only for identity verification; the full Aadhaar number is not necessary.
- Buying and shopping platforms that require an Aadhaar card to be uploaded for security purposes. For example, for renting artificial jewelry, the shopper asks you to keep your valid address documents; then you can use Masked Aadhaar.
Eligibility Criteria for Masked Aadhaar Card
- You must have a valid 12-digit Aadhaar number.
- To verify the OTP, your current mobile number must be linked to your most recent Aadhaar.
- To utilize the UIDAI’s myAadhaar portal, you must first have internet access.
Can NRIs download Masked Aadhaar?
Yes, NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) can easily download their Masked Aadhaar, only if
- Their Aadhaar is linked to a valid Indian mobile number.
- You have the Aadhaar card number.
Documents Required to Download Masked Aadhaar
- Aadhaar Number / VID / Enrolment ID:
- ·To download Masked Aadhaar, you need your Aadhaar Number, Virtual ID (VID), or Enrolment ID.
- Registered Mobile Number: Your Aadhaar-linked mobile number must be active to complete OTP verification and download.
Is there any fee for Masked Aadhaar?
No, there are no fees for creating and downloading a masked Aadhaar card. This process is completely free of cost. Also, there are no service fees or any hidden fees.
Some Limitations of Masked Aadhaar Not accepted in processes requiring the full Aadhaar number:
- Masked Aadhaar cannot be used where a bank, government department, or any service requires the complete Aadhaar number.
- Biometric or OTP-based Aadhaar authentication may require full Aadhaar details.
- Some financial institutions or organizations may request a full Aadhaar copy as part of their requirements.
- The first 8 digits of the Aadhaar number are hidden, making it insufficient for some verification purposes.
- To download a Masked Aadhaar, OTP verification is required on the mobile number registered with Aadhaar.
Conclusion
Using a Masked Aadhaar card is a smart and simple step toward protecting your personal information. It provides the necessary proof of identity for many everyday situations without exposing your sensitive 12-digit number to potential risks.
