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Now downloading Aadhaar has become even easier — directly through WhatsApp. Through the official WhatsApp-service option launched by government agencies and technology partners, citizens can securely get the masked version of their Aadhaar. Although the feature is convenient, it is important to know some important steps and safety precautions before using it.

The following steps present easy instructions for you — but remember to always verify the WhatsApp number and keyword from the government website (uidai.gov.in) or official announcements. Your privacy may be in danger by clicking on any unknown number or link.

Step 1 – Official Number and Verification

First of all, know the official number and service keyword of WhatsApp service from the official website of UIDAI or your nearest Aadhaar center. Just save that number and start chatting on WhatsApp. Typing ‘Hi’ or service-keyword in the first message will usually bring up an automatic menu.

Step 2 — Choose the appropriate option

Select the option like “Aadhaar Download” or “Download Masked Aadhaar” from the received menu. In some services you will find sub-options like ‘Aadhaar Download by Aadhaar Number / VID / Enrollment ID’ — choose as per your convenience.

Step 3 – Identity and OTP verification

You will be asked for Aadhaar Number, Virtual ID (VID) or Enrollment Number. Later, an OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number – this is important for security. Do not share OTP with anyone. The system will verify your request once you enter the OTP in the required field in the WhatsApp chat.

Step 4 — PDF receipt and password

After successful verification, you will be sent a PWD protected PDF of Aadhaar on WhatsApp or you will get a download link. Note: The password for the Aadhaar PDF is usually a combination of the first four letters of your name (CAPS) and year of birth (YYYY) — for example, if the name is “RAHUL KUMAR” and the year of birth is 1990, the password will be RAHU1990. (See official instructions for password rules.)

Step 5 — Save the file

Keep the downloaded file in a safe place and do not share it publicly. Share only when necessary and preferably use Masked Aadhaar while sharing so that only the last four digits are revealed.

necessary precautions

Use only official numbers and links—unknown numbers/links can be a means of fraud.

Do not share OTP and password with anyone.

Don’t download on public or unsecured Wi‑Fi.

Report any suspicious messages or unauthorized requests to UIDAI.

Alternative method: If you don’t want to use WhatsApp, you can also download Aadhaar from the mAadhaar mobile app or UIDAI’s official website—these methods are also safe and widely adopted.

This facility will now provide instant access to Aadhaar to citizens across the country—provided they follow the basic principles of digital security and use only official channels.

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