So, you’re scrolling through your feed, and suddenly, someone’s talking about a VID number. Wait, what? Is this some new Instagram trend or a code for a secret club? Relax, VID isn’t the latest term you need to know to keep your cool. It’s far more necessary and useful, particularly if you desire to handle your money properly. And speaking of the VID full form, the term stands for “Virtual ID (Identification),” while the term VID number stands for “Virtual ID (Identification) number.”
While, you may be asking yourself, “Why do I even need to know this,” trust us, it’s important.
Knowing the fundamentals of personal finance is more important than ever as Generation Z reaches adulthood. This generation is driven by self-reliance, making decisions quickly, and making wise decisions. However, managing finances isn’t always simple. Taxes, deductions, and refunds, for example, can make you feel as though you’re lost in a foreign country without a map. And that’s when having an awareness of VID becomes useful.
While it may not seem as exciting as your weekend plans, your VID number is essential for effective money management. Think of it as a key that opens the door to greater financial security and comprehension. Knowing your VID number will enable you to confidently negotiate the financial world.
Sounds great, right?
Let’s understand what is VID number, why it matters, and how it might assist you in making wiser financial decisions.
The lowdown on VID: What you need to know
So, what exactly is this magical VID? The VID is a 16-digit randomly generated code introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and can be used in place of your UID number for various services and transactions. It functions similarly to having a distinct passcode for each interaction while protecting and hiding your real UID number. The VID is revolutionary for anyone sincere about protecting their personal information’s privacy.
And the best part? You can change your VID anytime, adding an extra layer of security.
Here’s a quick rundown:
| Feature | Description |
| What it is | A 16-digit temporary ID that substitutes your Aadhaar number |
| Issued by | Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) |
| Regeneration | Can be regenerated anytime for enhanced security |
| Privacy | Masks your Aadhaar number to prevent misuse |
How does VID work?
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the Virtual ID (VID) works:
- Temporary and random: A VID is a temporary 16-digit number that is randomly generated and mapped to your UID number. This means no one can derive your Aadhaar number from your VID, adding a layer of security.
- One at a time: For each Aadhaar number, only one VID is active at any given moment. After a specific period of time, you can create a new VID at any time, making the old one invalid.
- Secure checksum: Your VID’s final digit applies the Verhoeff method, a mathematical procedure for mistake detection. By doing this, you may be sure that the VID is genuine and unaltered.
- Use for authentication: You can use the VID for any authentication or Know Your Customer (KYC) process in place of your Aadhaar number. In these circumstances, it operates in the same manner as your Aadhaar number.
- Easy to manage: Your VID can be created, retrieved, or revoked via the mAadhaar mobile app, the UIDAI website, or an Aadhaar enrollment facility. With this simple approach, you take control of your data privacy.
You’re being proactive in safeguarding your personal data while maintaining access to the services you require by being aware of and making use of the VID.
Why is VID a big deal for Gen Z?
They ask for identification when you’re completing the registration process for a new app or making an online reservation for your ideal vacation. Since your Aadhaar number is connected to a variety of personal information, sharing it could seem excessive. This is the situation where VID is useful.
Consider it an intelligent Aadhaar alias that allows you to accomplish your goals while safeguarding your real number. It’s the ideal privacy tool for managing the modern digital world without compromising your personal security.
Here’s why VID is a total game-changer:
- Privacy protection: VID is designed to mask your Aadhaar number, so you’re not constantly exposing your sensitive data.
- Ease of use: Generate and manage your VID easily, keeping your life simple and secure.
- Reduced risk: With VID, the risk of your Aadhaar number being misused is minimised.
Now, let’s talk about the benefits of Aadhaar Virtual ID
So, why bother with VID when you already have an Aadhaar number?
Here’s why Gen Z should get on board:
1. Protects your privacy like a pro
Using VID adds an extra level of security by keeping your actual UID number confidential. Verification agencies can much harder misuse your information because they only receive a UID token rather than your actual UID data.
2. Data protection
The VID system is designed so that your Aadhaar number cannot be derived from your VID. This means that even if your VID is exposed, your Aadhaar data remains secure and untouchable.
3. Controlled access
With VID, you can keep your personal information private and only expose the information required to complete a transaction. This limited sharing lowers the chance of data breaches and identity theft considerably.
4. Revocability
One of the standout features of VID is that it can be revoked and regenerated whenever needed. This means if you ever feel like your VID has been compromised, you can quickly generate a new one, something you can’t do with a static Aadhaar number.
Where can you use the Aadhaar virtual ID?
One of the coolest things about the Aadhaar Virtual ID is how widely it’s being accepted.
Here’s where you can put your VID to good use:
1. Banks
Banks now accept VID for creating new business accounts and confirming identity for high-value transactions. This is particularly helpful if you value privacy because it keeps your Aadhaar number off the record.
2. Telecom providers
When you register for a new SIM card, your VID can be used in place of your UID number. This easy adjustment guarantees the privacy of your Aadhaar data by adding a significant level of security.
3. Government services
Across numerous government sites, VID can be utilised in place of Aadhaar for tasks like submitting taxes and seeking benefits. This protects your Aadhaar details from unnecessary exposure and incorporates digital KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures and other identity verification processes.
Aadhaar ID vs. Aadhaar Virtual ID: What’s the difference?
It’s easy to confuse Aadhaar ID with VID, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features.
Here’s a comparison of Aadhaar ID vs. Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) in a table format for easy understanding:
| Feature | Aadhaar ID | Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) |
| Definition | A 12-digit unique identification number is issued by the UIDAI to every resident of India. | A 16-digit temporary, revocable number that serves as an alternative to the Aadhaar ID for authentication. |
| Purpose | Provides a unique identity to every resident and is used for various services and verifications. | Improves privacy and security by allowing verification without revealing the actual Aadhaar number. |
| Data Exposure | Can potentially expose sensitive demographic and biometric data if misused or leaked. | Limits data exposure by masking the actual Aadhaar number, providing only a temporary identifier. |
| Security | Direct use of Aadhaar ID increases the risk of profiling and fraud if combined with other personal data. | Offers greater security by preventing agencies from accessing the actual Aadhaar number and demographic data. |
| Storage rules | Should not be stored by unauthorised entities, but difficult to enforce in practice. | Not stored as a permanent identifier; temporary and can be regenerated as needed. |
| Use in authentication | Used directly for authentication by various service providers. | Generates a unique UID token for each service provider, ensuring the UID number is never directly shared. |
| Regeneration | Permanent and unchangeable once issued. | Can be regenerated anytime by the Aadhaar holder, providing flexibility and added security. |
| Data linking | Allows for easy linking of demographic data if accessed by multiple agencies. | Prevents data merging across agencies due to different UID tokens for the same Aadhaar number. |
| Risk of misuse | Higher risk of misuse if the Aadhaar ID is leaked or stored improperly. | Lower risk since the VID is temporary, changeable, and does not directly link back to the Aadhaar number. |
| User control | Less control over how the Aadhaar ID is stored and used once shared. | More control as users can change the VID whenever they feel it might have been compromised. |
From basics to pro: How Gen Z can easily create an Aadhaar Virtual ID
Ready to generate your Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) and keep your data safe? There are three easy ways to get your VID:
- Online
- Via the mAadhaar app
- Or through SMS
Let’s break it down!
1. Generate your Aadhaar Virtual ID online
Step 1: Visit the UIDAI website.
Step 2: Click on “Virtual ID (VID) Generator” under the Aadhaar Services section.
Step 3: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the captcha, then hit “Send OTP.”
Step 4: Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and click “Generate.”
Step 5: You’ll get a confirmation that your VID has been sent to your mobile.
Step 6: Check your SMS inbox for a message containing your 16-digit VID and the last 4 digits of your Aadhaar.
2. Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID using the mAadhaar app
Step 1: Download the mAadhaar app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Step 2: Open the app, register if you haven’t already, and log in using your Aadhaar details.
Step 3: On the home screen, tap “Generate Virtual ID.”
Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar number and the 4-digit captcha code.
Step 5: Click “Request OTP” and enter the OTP received on your registered mobile.
Step 6: Hit “Generate VID” and voilà, your Virtual ID is ready!
3. Get your Aadhaar Virtual ID through SMS
Step 1: Open your SMS app on your phone.
Step 2: Type “GVID” followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar number.
Example: If your Aadhaar is 1234-5678-9123, type “GVID 9123.”
Step 3: Send this message to 1947.
Step 4: Check your messages—you’ll receive a text with your new VID.
There you have it!
Three super simple ways to keep your Aadhaar details secure by using a Virtual ID. Choose the method that suits you best and keep your data safe like a pro.
[Pro Tip: If needed, a VID can be regenerated every day, and it’s valid until you create a new one.]
Why should Gen Z care about Aadhaar Virtual ID?
As a part of Generation Z, you understand the value of data security and are tech-savvy. The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) deserves your attention for the following reasons:
The Aadhaar Virtual ID is a simple yet effective tool to help you manage this.
Here’s why you should care about it:
- Privacy protection: You can keep your actual Aadhaar number hidden with the VID. For transactions and services, you can use the VID in place of disclosing your Aadhaar number. This guarantees the security of your private data.
- Widespread acceptance: An increasing number of services—including government websites, banks, and telecom companies—accept VID. By doing this, you can more easily and securely access the services you require without having to reveal your Aadhaar number all the time.
- Convenience at your fingertips: Using the UIDAI website or app, generating and managing the VID is simple. It’s an easy and quick way to take care of identification verification without any fuss.
- Smart identity management: With the VID, you can keep track of who has access to your Aadhaar information. It’s a proactive way to manage and safeguard your identity in a digital age.
Security measures of VID
VID doesn’t mess around when it comes to keeping your info safe.
Here are some top-notch security features:
Encryption protocols
Consider VID to be your personal information’s high-security vault. Advanced encryption techniques are implemented to ensure that your data remains hidden from prying eyes.
Biometric integration
VID can integrate with your distinct biometric information, such as your fingerprint or facial recognition, in addition to passwords. By doing this, you increase security even further and make sure that only you can access your data.
Two-factor authentication
VID uses two-factor authentication to give an additional layer of protection. This implies that if someone tries to log in using your credentials, they will still require an additional form of authentication, such as a code texted to your phone, in order to be granted access.
Continuous monitoring
VID uses constant monitoring to look for any suspicious activity. When something doesn’t seem right, VID is prepared to take quick action, notify you right away, and safeguard your identity.
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Wrapping it up: Why knowing your VID number matters
Managing finances, keeping up with digital security, and ensuring privacy aren’t just for adults anymore. Keeping up with these matters is essential for a safe and prosperous future for Gen Zers. Although the Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) may seem like just another code, it’s a very useful tool that lets you access vital services without compromising the privacy of your personal information.
Understanding how to use your VID can be very helpful when filing taxes, opening a bank account or getting a new phone line. It’s like a digital shield in the vast, interconnected world of online transactions.
So, don’t sleep on this, get your VID today and take control of your privacy and financial security like a pro!
