What is Masked Aadhaar: Safeguarding Your Privacy with Partly Hidden Aadhaar Number

Masked Aadhaar is a technology-driven solution designed to protect the privacy of Aadhaar numbers while enabling their use in various secure environments. By masking the initial eight digits of the Aadhaar number, only the last four digits remain visible, significantly enhancing the security of the personal information associated with this unique identifier.

The Structure of Masked Aadhaar

Mentioned above, the masked Aadhaar card format is 'XXXX-XXXX-1234', where the 'XXXX-XXXX' section denotes the masked portion and '1234' is the visible part of the Aadhaar number. This format is a safeguard mechanism that prevents unauthorized access to your complete identity while still allowing for its use in legitimate transactions.

Applications and Usage

Masked Aadhaar can be leveraged for securing personal information in multiple scenarios such as:

Travel bookings and movie tickets Hotels and lodging reservations Cheers at pubs and restaurants

Downloading Masked Aadhaar: You can download a masked Aadhaar card through the official Aadhaar website or mobile application, offering you the flexibility to keep your personal data protected without compromising on convenience.

History and Prior Suggestions

The idea of using masked Aadhaar was formally introduced by the Government of India as a way to reduce the risk of privacy breaches. Earlier, the government suggested that instead of writing the full 12-digit Aadhaar number, the first eight digits should be masked, such as 'XXXX XXXX 1234'. This ensures that sensitive information is safeguarded while completing applications for services or accounts.

Benefits of Masked Aadhaar

Masked Aadhaar offers several advantages:

Enhanced Security: By removing the first eight digits, it deters unauthorized access to your full Aadhaar number. Privacy Protection: Only the last four digits are visible, ensuring that your personal information remains safe and secure. Convenience: You can use masked Aadhaar in multiple scenarios, providing you with the flexibility to manage your identity with ease.

Carrying Masked Aadhaar: If you wish to carry a physical copy of your masked Aadhaar card, you can do so. The card would appear as 'XXXX XXXX 1234', with only the last four digits being visible, offering you a portable and secure form of identification.

Conclusion

Masked Aadhaar is a valuable tool for safeguarding your privacy and personal information. Its innovative implementation provides a balance between security and convenience, ensuring that your unique identifier remains protected in various settings. Whether you are booking travel, staying at a hotel, or enjoying a meal at a restaurant, you can rest assured knowing that your privacy is maintained with masked Aadhaar.