AAD.08 · SAFETY
Security, Privacy & Fraud
Share the minimum identity information needed for the transaction. Prefer verifiable, limited-disclosure Aadhaar formats and use UIDAI’s security controls when risk is higher.
Safer ways to prove identity
| Tool | What it does | When it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual ID (VID) | A revocable 16-digit number usable in place of the Aadhaar number for supported authentication/e-KYC | When a service supports VID and does not need your permanent Aadhaar number. |
| Masked Aadhaar | Shows only the last four Aadhaar digits | For many document-copy situations where the full number is unnecessary. |
| Offline e-KYC XML | Digitally signed demographic data with a reference ID rather than the Aadhaar number | For offline verification by a service provider that supports it. |
| Aadhaar App verifiable credential | Lets the holder selectively show/share a verifiable credential | For supported in-person or digital verification. |
Controls worth using
- Lock biometrics when you are not using fingerprint, iris or face authentication; temporarily unlock when needed.
- Check authentication history for unfamiliar activity.
- Lock the Aadhaar number where appropriate; authentication using VID can remain available under UIDAI’s rules.
- Never share OTPs, app PINs, full XML/share codes or downloaded Aadhaar files with an unsolicited caller.
If you suspect misuse
Open UIDAI’s homepage → My Aadhaar → Aadhaar Services to lock/unlock and review history, or use myAadhaar directly. For a complaint, call 1947 or choose Contact & Support → Grievance Redressal Mechanism. For UIDAI’s website privacy policy, choose Privacy Policy in the footer; UIDAI’s published privacy-policy deep link currently returns 404.
Official sources
LAST EDITORIAL REVIEW · 26 AUG 2026