As a part of its efforts to enhance privacy and security for Aadhaar-based authentication, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced the concept of Virtual ID (VID) in 2018. VID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped with the Aadhaar number. It can be used in lieu of Aadhaar number whenever authentication or e-KYC services are performed. In this article, we will dive deeper into the details of VID, its usage, and its benefits.
Expiry Period of VID
Currently, there is no expiry period defined for VID. The VID will be valid until a new VID is generated by the Aadhaar number holder. This ensures that the VID can be used for a longer duration, without the need for frequent renewals.
Generation and Regeneration of VID
Aadhaar number holders can generate their VID by themselves. UIDAI provides various options such as the website, eAadhaar download, mAadhaar mobile application, and more. The VID can also be generated by sending an SMS to the Aadhaar helpline number 1947. The resident will have to type “GVID Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number” and send it to 1947 through the registered mobile number.
After the minimum validity period of 1 calendar day, Aadhaar number holders may request regeneration of a new VID. In this way, a new VID will be generated, and the previous VID will be deactivated. This ensures better privacy and security for the Aadhaar number holder.
Usage of VID
VID can be used in lieu of Aadhaar number whenever authentication or e-KYC services are performed. Authentication may be performed using VID in a manner similar to using Aadhaar number. VID can be used for OTP, biometrics, and demographics authentication, among others. It is not possible to derive Aadhaar number from VID, thereby ensuring better privacy and security for the Aadhaar number holder.
Retrieval of VID
UIDAI provides multiple options to generate new or retrieve current VID. These options are made available via UIDAI’s website (www.myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in), eAadhaar, mAadhaar mobile application, SMS, and more.
For retrieval of VID, the Aadhaar number holder may send an SMS to the Aadhaar helpline number 1947. The resident will have to type “RVID Last 4 digits of Aadhaar Number” and send it to 1947 through the registered mobile number. The last active VID will be sent to the Aadhaar number holder through SMS.
Consent for VID-based Authentication
Consent from the Aadhaar number holder is necessary for VID-based authentication. The agency is required to inform the Aadhaar number holder about the purpose of authentication and collect explicit consent for performing authentication. This ensures better privacy and security for the Aadhaar number holder.
Storage of VID
Since VID is temporary and can be changed by the Aadhaar number holder, storing VID has no value. Agencies should not store VID in any database or logs. This ensures better privacy and security for the Aadhaar number holder.
Conclusion
Virtual ID (VID) is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped with the Aadhaar number. It can be used in lieu of Aadhaar number whenever authentication or e-KYC services are performed. VID provides better privacy and security for the Aadhaar number holder. UIDAI provides various options for generating and replacing VID. Consent from the Aadhaar number holder is necessary for VID-based authentication. Agencies should not store VID in any database or logs. By understanding the concept of VID and its benefits, Aadhaar number holders can make better use of this feature for secure authentication and ensure their privacy is protected. With VID, Aadhaar number holders can authenticate their identity without the need to share their Aadhaar number. VID also ensures that the Aadhaar number remains confidential, and the privacy of Aadhaar number holders is protected. UIDAI’s focus on enhancing privacy and security for Aadhaar-based authentication makes it an essential identity tool in the country. By providing better privacy and security, VID helps to build trust among users and ensures that Aadhaar continues to be a reliable and secure identity tool for all.