Digilocker, an initiative by the Government of India, provides a secure and convenient platform for storing and accessing important documents digitally. As digital services grow, many users wonder if they can manage multiple accounts on Digilocker, perhaps for different purposes or family members. This article explores the feasibility and implications of having two accounts on Digilocker, including the reasons one might consider it and the guidelines provided by Digilocker itself.
Digilocker aims to eliminate the need for physical documents by allowing users to store and access digital copies of their important papers, such as Aadhaar cards, driving licenses, educational certificates, and more. Each Digilocker account is tied to a user's mobile number and Aadhaar number, ensuring security and authenticity.
Why Consider Multiple Digilocker Accounts?
1. Personal and Professional Separation: Some users might prefer to keep their documents separate from professional ones for better organization and security.
2. Family Members: Managing documents for different family members could be a reason. For instance, parents might want separate accounts for their children to store educational certificates and other personal documents.
3. Redundancy and Backup: Although Digilocker is secure, some users might consider having a secondary account as an additional backup.
Can You Have Two Accounts?
Official Guidelines: According to Digilocker's terms and policies, each user is allowed only one account per Aadhaar number. Since an Aadhaar number is a unique identifier, the system does not permit the creation of multiple accounts linked to the same Aadhaar.
This implies:
– Single Account Per Aadhaar: You cannot have more than one Digilocker account linked to the same Aadhaar number.
– Unique Mobile Number: Each account must be linked to a unique mobile number, which also cannot be reused for another Digilocker account.
Practical Considerations and Workarounds
While you can't have multiple accounts tied to the same Aadhaar, there are some practical ways to manage multiple sets of documents:
1. Separate Accounts for Family Members: Each family member should have their own Digilocker account linked to their unique Aadhaar number. Parents can help their children set up accounts and manage them until they are old enough to do so themselves.
2. Shared Access: While Digilocker does not officially support shared access or account delegation, families can manage this by sharing login details responsibly. However, this is not recommended due to security concerns.
3. Alternative Storage Solutions: For those needing to store different types of documents separately, consider using additional cloud storage services alongside Digilocker. This could include services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive for non-sensitive documents while using Digilocker for critical government-issued papers.
Steps to Set Up and Manage Multiple Accounts
If you’re managing Digilocker for multiple family members, here’s how to do it efficiently:
1. Create Separate Accounts: Each individual should create their own Digilocker account using their unique Aadhaar and mobile number.
– Sign Up Process: Visit the Digilocker website or download the app. Click on “Sign Up” and enter the required details, including Aadhaar number and mobile number. Follow the OTP verification process to complete the registration.
2. Organize Documents: Within each account, organize documents into folders or categories for easy access.
– Upload Documents: Use the “Upload” feature to add digital copies of documents. Ensure they are clearly labeled and organized.
3. Link Issued Documents: Utilize the “Issued Documents” feature to automatically fetch documents issued by various government departments directly into the Digilocker.
– Fetch Aadhaar, PAN, and Other Certificates: Use the Aadhaar number to link and fetch documents like PAN cards, driving licenses, and educational certificates.
4. Regular Updates: Keep all accounts updated with the latest documents and ensure the contact details remain current.
Security and Privacy Concerns
Managing multiple Digilocker accounts requires a careful approach to security:
1. Strong Passwords: Ensure each account uses a strong, unique password. Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts.
2. Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication for an additional layer of security. This can prevent unauthorized access even if someone obtains the password.
3. Regular Monitoring: Periodically check each account for any unauthorized activity. Immediately report any suspicious activities to Digilocker support.
While Digilocker’s policy restricts having multiple accounts tied to the same Aadhaar number, managing documents for different individuals through separate accounts is entirely feasible. By understanding the platform’s guidelines and adopting best practices for security, users can effectively manage their digital documents across multiple accounts. For those needing more flexibility, combining Digilocker with other cloud storage solutions can offer a balanced approach to document management. This ensures you remain organized, secure, and compliant with Digilocker's usage policies.