UIDAI introduces Virtual ID to adress privacy issues

NewDelhi Jan 10: In a move to address privacy concerns of Aadhar the UIDAI on Wednesday has introduced a new concept of 'Virtual ID'. The ID can be used for various purposes, including SIM verification, instead of sharing the actual 12-digit biometric ID.

Sources said that "the Virtual ID would be a random 16-digit number, together with biometrics of the user would give any authorized agency like a mobile company, limited details like name, address, and photograph, which are enough for any verification."

The 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 authorized agency that is providing a particular service, say, a telco.

UIDAI has said that "Aadhaar number holder can use the 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".