Masked Aadhaar Card Download Guide – Safe, Quick & Official Method

The Masked Aadhaar card is a privacy-focused version of the standard Aadhaar, designed to safeguard users’ data by hiding the first eight digits of the 12-digit number. Launched by UIDAI, it functions as a valid ID proof while reducing the risk of identity theft in digital and offline services.

This secure alternative is downloadable online within minutes and still retains key details like your photo, QR code, and demographic info. With over 138 crore Aadhaar cards issued, the masked version plays a crucial role in strengthening data protection for Indian citizens.

What is a Masked Aadhaar Card?

The Masked Aadhaar card is a privacy-focused version of the standard Aadhaar that hides the first eight digits of your 12-digit number, showing only the last four. This version retains all essential details like your photo, QR code, and demographics, making it valid for ID verification.

It was introduced to curb the growing misuse of Aadhaar details in cyber fraud and unauthorized loans, especially during the rise of digital transactions post-pandemic. By limiting the exposure of sensitive information, it allows users to verify their identity securely without compromising their full Aadhaar number.

Understanding Your Masked Aadhaar Card

The Masked Aadhaar card features some key features once you’ve opened it:

• Masked Aadhaar Number: Your Aadhaar number is only visible with the last four digits, because the first eight digits are replaced with Xs.
• Virtual ID (VID): You will be able to access an additional layer of security through your Masked Aadhaar card, which will feature a 16-digit Virtual ID.
• QR Code: Your Aadhaar details are encrypted and stored in a QR code, which can be scanned at any time for quick verification.
• Personal Details: You will still be able to see your name, address, date of birth, gender, and photograph on Aadhaar cards as they do on regular ones.

How to Download a Masked Aadhaar Card Online?

You can conveniently access your masked Aadhaar through the UIDAI website or the mAadhaar app, provided your mobile number is linked for OTP verification. It is a straightforward process, similar to downloading an Aadhaar card.

• Please visit https://uidai.gov.in/ or myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in to learn more about UIDAI.

• Select the “Download Aadhaar” option under “My Aadhaar.”
• Select an option to download: Aadhaar Number, Enrollment ID, or Virtual ID.
• Please enter your details and the captcha code.
• Request an OTP by clicking the “Send OTP” button.
• After OTP is received, enter it and click on “Verify and Download.”

• For a masked Aadhaar, check the option “Do you want a masked Aadhaar?”
• Upon successful verification, the file will automatically download or prompt you to save it.
• Open the downloaded file, which is in PDF format.
• The password to open the file is the first four letters of your name in uppercase, followed by your year of birth (e.g., SREE1976).
• The TOTP (if enabled) can be used for verification through the mAadhaar app for additional security.

Download Masked Aadhaar from the DigiLocker App

The DigiLocker app offers a simple, step-by-step guide for users to access masked Aadhaar and get a free masked Aadhaar.

• Go to the App Store and download DigiLocker.
• Register using your mobile number, username, or Aadhaar number.
• Navigate to the “Issued Documents” section.
• You can download the masked Aadhaar card by clicking on the “Save” button.
• If you’re new, create an account during the sign-in process.
• Select Aadhaar under “Documents you might need” and give consent.
• Enter Aadhaar number and verify with OTP.
• Download the Aadhaar card after successful verification.
• Access the DigiLocker app from the Play Store or App Store and sign in using your credentials.

How to download Masked Aadhaar from the mAadhaar app

UIDAI’s mAadhaar app, launched in June 2013, provides both regular and masked Aadhaar cards on mobile devices simply and securely.

• Download the mAadhaar app for Android or iOS.
• Open the app and click “Download Aadhaar” under “Get Aadhaar.“
• Choose the “Masked Aadhaar” option.
• Your Aadhaar number, Virtual ID (VID), or Enrolment ID (EID), together with the CAPTCHA code, must be entered.
• Send an OTP and enter the code you receive.
• Get your masked Aadhaar by verifying the OTP.

Why Should I Use A Masked Aadhaar?

Aadhaar cards are used as an identification number for all citizens of India, and they have become the primary method of identification for all citizens.The introduction of the Masked Aadhaar card offers added protection against identity theft by concealing most of the Aadhaar number, ensuring that the risk of phishing, data leakage, or identity fraud is significantly reduced. It provides a convenient way to verify identity for various services, such as opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or filing taxes, without fully exposing personal details.

A key advantage of Masked Aadhaar over the regular card is its ability to protect privacy by hiding sensitive information. Even though Aadhaar is masked, it is still a valid ID card. Masked Aadhaar is also more secure, offering a safer option for people looking to protect their privacy.

Password of Masked Aadhaar

The digital version of the Aadhaar card comes with security features, including password protection. To access the masked Aadhaar file, users need to input an 8-character password. Documents are unlocked once they have been unlocked and can be printed or shared once they have been unlocked.

• Password format: Using the password of your first four capital letters and your birth year, you can download a password-protected, masked Aadhaar card.
• Example: If Vishal Singh was born in 1982, his password would be VISH1982.
• Note: Aadhaar passwords need to be kept secure and only used when necessary.

Acceptance of Masked Aadhar

Aadhaar masked cards can be used to prove your identity in flights, airports, and hotels. Furthermore, you can use them everywhere you need to prove your identity. However, they cannot be accepted for other DBT government welfare programs. You will need a regular e-AADHAAR or a copy of your AADHAAR card if you wish to participate in government welfare programs.

Key Benefits of a Masked Aadhaar Card

• Enhanced Privacy: Aadhaar numbers are concealed in some ways, which increases their privacy and reduces the risk of misuse.
• Prevention of Misuse and Fraud: You can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft, phishing attacks, and financial access using masked Aadhaar numbers.
• Secure Transactions: Your Aadhaar number cannot be accessed while you are completing KYC procedures and conducting online transactions.
• Legal Validity: A masked Aadhaar number can often serve as proof of identity and address in situations where you don’t have to reveal your full Aadhaar number.
• Convenience: Your Aadhaar number can be shared securely and conveniently without fear of misuse.

Difference between Masked Aadhaar and Regular Aadhaar

A masked Aadhaar card differs from a regular Aadhaar card in the following ways:

Basis	Masked Aadhaar Card	Regular Aadhaar Card
Visibility of Aadhaar Number	The first 8 digits are hidden; only the last 4 are visible	You can see the 12-digit Aadhaar number in its entirety
Use for Government Schemes	Government schemes are not acceptable	Acceptable
Format Available	This service is only available in eAadhaar format	E-Aadhaar is available in both physical and electronic formats
Validity	Aadhaar card validity is the same as a regular card	Across India, legally valid

What is Virtual ID (VID)?

An Aadhaar number mapped to a temporary, revocable 16-digit arbitrary number is called a Virtual ID. Virtual IDs are more secure and private than Aadhaar numbers, so they can be used to perform e-KYC services or authentication instead of your Aadhaar number.

Your Virtual ID can be generated as many times as you want using mAadhaar or UIDAI. However, it is recommended to generate another Virtual ID after each authentication or e-KYC process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Masked Aadhaar cards may cause some issues during download or use. Here are solutions:

• OTP not received: You may need to check your mobile number with UIDAI, and if the issue persists, you may need to visit your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
• Incorrect password: Your Aadhaar card number must be followed by the year of your birth.
• Download failure: The problem may be related to your internet connection. If the problem persists, make sure that your browser’s cache and cookies are cleared before you retry.
• Masked Aadhaar not accepted: The majority of organizations accept Masked Aadhaar, while some may require the full Aadhaar number. If such is the case, you will need to provide additional identification or use the regular Aadhaar card.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

Accessing your Aadhaar or Masked Aadhaar card online is a secure and user-friendly option available through trusted platforms like UIDAI, mAadhaar, UMANG, or DigiLocker. While downloading, ensure your mobile number is linked, your details are accurate, and your connection is secure. The Masked Aadhaar adds an extra layer of privacy by hiding key information, making it ideal for safer digital use. Embracing these tools empowers individuals to manage their identity securely in today’s online environment.