In recent times, it has become increasingly common for hotels and booking platforms like OYO to request the original Aadhaar number during the booking process. This move is considered a positive step toward enhancing security. However, it also raises concerns about the potential misuse of sensitive personal information, especially in light of the increasing number of fraudulent activities involving Aadhaar details.
Importance of Using Masked Aadhaar
When providing your Aadhaar card information for booking a hotel room, it is advisable to use a Masked Aadhaar Card. A masked Aadhaar card displays only the last four digits of your Aadhaar number, hiding the other eight digits. This innovative security feature significantly reduces the risk of fraud, as it provides essential identification without exposing complete information.
What is Masked Aadhaar?
The Masked Aadhaar is a modified version of the standard Aadhaar card, in which eight digits are concealed for security purposes. Only the last four digits are visible, making it much harder for unauthorized individuals to misuse your Aadhaar card. The masked Aadhaar card can serve as an acceptable form of identification in various contexts, such as hotel check-ins or parking validations.
How to Download Masked Aadhaar Card?
Downloading a Masked Aadhaar card is a straightforward process. Follow the steps outlined below:
- Visit the official UIDAI website.
- Navigate to the “My Aadhaar” section.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and select the option to send an OTP (One-Time Password) to your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP received.
- Select the option to download your Aadhaar.
- Make sure to check the box that indicates you want a Masked Aadhaar card.
- Submit your request. Your Masked Aadhaar card will then be generated and available for download.
Accessing Your Masked Aadhaar
To open the downloaded Masked Aadhaar file, you will need a password. The password typically consists of the first four letters of your name followed by your birth month and year. This extra layer of security helps protect your information further.
Precautions While Sharing Aadhaar Information
While providing your Aadhaar number may be necessary in some situations, always prioritize your privacy and security. Here are a few essential tips:
- Verify that the establishment requesting your Aadhaar card has a legitimate need for it.
- Always prefer to share a Masked Aadhaar card instead of the original to protect your full identity.
- Monitor your bank accounts and online transactions regularly for any unauthorized activity.
- Be aware of phishing attempts that may seek to obtain your Aadhaar details through deceitful means.
Conclusion
As technology evolves, so do security measures. The requirement for Aadhaar card information during hotel bookings is a step toward transparency and accountability. Nonetheless, safeguarding your personal information should remain a top priority. Utilizing a Masked Aadhaar card is a smart strategy to protect your sensitive data while still fulfilling your identification needs when booking accommodations.
