Quick answer
To mask your Aadhaar number in a PDF, open Redact PDF, drag a box over the first eight digits on every page where the number appears, and apply redactions. The digits are permanently removed, leaving only the last four visible. Run Redaction checker afterwards to confirm nothing is hidden underneath.
What is a masked Aadhaar?
A masked Aadhaar shows only the last four digits of the number — the first eight are replaced with X's or blacked out. UIDAI encourages using masked Aadhaar where the full number isn't required, such as hotel check-ins and many KYC copies. You can also download a masked e-Aadhaar directly from UIDAI.
Why not just draw a black box over it?
A black box drawn in an ordinary PDF editor only covers the number. The digits are often still in the file and can be copied or revealed by removing the box. Real redaction deletes what's underneath.
How do I mask Aadhaar in a PDF?
- Open Redact PDF and add your Aadhaar PDF or scan.
- Choose Redact area and drag over the first eight digits.
- Repeat on every place the number appears — front, back and any QR area you want to hide.
- Click Apply redactions and download.
Can it find the number automatically?
For digital PDFs (like e-Aadhaar), Auto-redact PII can find Aadhaar and PAN numbers, phone numbers and emails using pattern matching, and redact them in one go. Review the result — it removes the whole number, so use manual redaction if you want to keep the last four digits.
Scanned photos have no text layer, so mark those areas by hand.
How do I check the masking worked?
Open the result in Redaction checker. It looks for text still hiding under black boxes and tells you if anything is left.
What else should I mask?
| Field | Mask it? |
|---|---|
| First 8 digits of Aadhaar | Yes, unless full number is required |
| Date of birth | If not needed |
| Address (back side) | If only identity proof is needed |
| Photo | Usually keep — it proves identity |
Masking happens on your device. Your Aadhaar never leaves your browser.
Frequently asked questions
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