UIDAI introduces 'Virtual ID' to protect privacy of Aadhaar-card holders

New Delhi : UIDAI has introduced a new concept 'Virtual ID' that can be generated from its website and can be used for various purposes, including SIM verification, instead of sharing the actual 12-digit biometric ID.

The move will allow users to not share their actual 12-digit Aadhaar card number for the authentication purpose.

The new 'Virtual ID' will be a set of random 16-digit numbers that after being clubbed with biometrics of the user would give any authorised agency like a mobile company, limited details like name, address and photograph, which are enough for any verification.

There is no limit on generating the number of 'Virtual ID' for a user. The older ID gets automatically cancelled once a fresh one is generated.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has also introduced the concept of ‘limited KYC’ under which it will only provide need-based or limited details of a user to an authorised agency that is providing a particular service, say, a telco.

From June 1, 2018, it will become mandatory for all the companies to accept the virtual ID for the authentication of a person.

“Aadhaar number holder can use Virtual ID in lieu of Aadhaar number whenever authentication or KYC services are performed. Authentication may be performed using the Virtual ID in a manner similar to using Aadhaar number,” a UIDAI circular said.