DigiLocker: Say No To Mountains of Paper Documents

Do you remember the time when you were driving and got pulled over by the cops, only to realise that you left your physical driving license at home? It was a frustrating experience, right? After all, no one wants to pay additional money for a traffic ticket that could have been avoided by carrying the required documents.
And what about that time when you had to hunt down your 10th-grade mark sheet? Only to tear through your house for hours and to face your mother's wrath for making a mess when you finally found it.

Keeping track of important physical documents can be such a pain. Not to mention, if you lose them, you’ll end up wasting hours and sometimes even money to get those documents reissued. But guess what? There's a tool that can save you from all this hassle - DigiLocker! With this tool, you can say bye-bye to the stress of carrying around physical documents.
In this article, we're going to explore all about DigiLocker. No need to go anywhere else, because we have all the information stocked about DigiLocker here. So read on!

What is DigiLocker?

DigiLocker is your digital document wallet, a perfect way to securely store important documents online from Aadhaar card, PAN card, and driving license to mark sheets, and more. A main initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY), DigiLocker is a government-approved, cloud-based platform. It is a secure storage house making your worries about losing or damaging crucial documents go poof.

It's a free and user-friendly solution for managing your documents that offers a good 1GB of storage space. Along with this, DigiLocker gives you the freedom to share your documents with anyone within seconds. Not to forget, you also bypass the difficulty of managing physical documents.
No more rushing back home, as you now have the superpower to access your documents anywhere, anytime, and from any device.

How to Activate DigiLocker Account?

You need to have a working phone number! Without a working mobile number, you won't get access to this marvellous invention. Now once you have a number, you can create a DigiLocker account either by visiting their official website or by downloading their mobile app.

Following are the steps you must take to open a DigiLocker account:

Step 1: Head over to the official DigiLocker website-  https://DigiLocker.gov.in/.

Step 2: Look for the big 'Sign Up' button at the top of the page. Click it.

Step 3: You'll be taken to a sign-up page. Fill in your name, date of birth, and mobile number linked to your Aadhaar card. Don't forget to come up with a secret PIN and enter your email ID too! Now hit 'Continue'.

Step 4:  Now, put in your Aadhar number. You'll be given two options - One Time Password (OTP) or Fingerprint. Choose any and proceed.

Step 5: Next, create a username and password. Make sure to follow the instructions. You can even use your mobile number or email as your username. Then, click on the 'Signup' button and your DigiLocker account is good to go.

That's it! That's how simple it is to get yourself Digi-doc-wallet- aka DigiLocker ACCOUNT!!!!

Is DigiLocker a Government App?

Are you wondering whether DigiLocker is a government app or not? You may be hesitant to trust an online platform with your important documents and personal details. But let me assure you, DigiLocker is indeed a government app developed and managed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India.
The goal of DigiLocker is to empower citizens by allowing them to access genuine digital documents.

But you may still have doubts about the security of your documents. What if someone hacks into your DigiLocker account and steals your personal information? Well, the good news is that DigiLocker is extremely secure. The secret PIN you created while creating a DigiLocker account is the shield that protects your account from unauthorised access.

How to Use DigiLocker?

From signing up to uploading documents on DigiLocker, here are the step-by-step directions for your reference. 

How to eSign documents in DigiLocker?

Step 1: Log in to your DigiLocker account:
To eSign a document, you need to first log in to your DigiLocker account using your mobile number. You will then receive an OTP that you have to enter.

Step 2: Upload the document:
Upload the document that needs to be signed in the 'Uploaded Documents’' section. Make sure that the document is in a supported format, such as PDF, JPG, or PNG.

Step 3: Click on 'Sign Document':
After uploading the document, you need to click on the three dots (...) next to the document name to access the 'Sign Document' option. Then click on the 'Sign Document' button. You will be asked to select the signing certificate.

Step 4: Select the signing certificate:
Here, there are two types of signing certificates - 'Sign with Aadhaar' and 'Sign with Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)'. Choose the certificate that you want to use for signing the document.

Step 5: Authenticate the signing certificate:
If you choose to sign in with your Aadhaar, you will be asked to enter your Aadhaar number and OTP. If you choose to sign with DSC, you will need to connect your DSC to your DigiLocker account.

Step 6: Sign the document:
After authentication, you will be able to sign the document using the selected certificate. You can add your signature, initials, or even a date stamp to the document.

Step 7: Save and share:
Once you have signed the document, you can save it in your DigiLocker account or share it directly.

How to Upload Documents on DigiLocker?

Step 1: Click on 'Upload Documents
Once you're logged in, you'll see the option to 'Upload Documents' on the main page. Click on that and select the type of document you want to upload

Step 2: Select the Document Type
Select the type of document you want to upload from the list of options available. For instance, if you want to upload your Aadhaar card, select 'Aadhaar' from the list.

Step 3: Upload the Document
Now, all you need to do is select the document you want to upload and upload it. You can select it from your device's storage.

Step 4: Verify the Document
Once you've uploaded the document, you'll need to verify it. This is done using a One-Time Password (OTP) that you'll receive on your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP and your document will be verified.

What are the Steps to Modify KYC Information on DigiLocker?

Modifying your KYC information on DigiLocker is very simple. With a few simple steps, you can easily update your information on this amazing digital platform.

Step 1: Log in to your DigiLocker account.

Step 2: Once you're logged in, click on the 'Profile' tab. You'll find it in the top-right corner of your screen.

Step 3: Scroll down to the 'KYC Information' section and click on 'Modify.'

Step 4: Update the necessary details, such as your name, address, or phone number.

Step 5: Once you've made the changes, click on 'Save.'

Is DigiLocker Safe to Use?

After discussing all the impressive features of DigiLocker, I'm sure you're impressed with this digital solution for document management. However, the big question on everyone's mind is - is it safe to use?

Well, DigiLocker is a government-backed platform, which means it undergoes rigorous security checks and is constantly monitored to ensure it meets high standards. So, you can trust DigiLocker knowing that your documents are in good hands.

Apart from government backing, DigiLocker also uses various measures to keep your documents secure. This includes secure data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and digital signatures, among others. So you can be sure that your documents are not only easily accessible but also tamper-proof and authentic.
For those who are interested in the technical details of how secure DigiLocker really is, let's take a closer look.

As mentioned earlier, DigiLocker is a government-backed initiative that has stringent security protocols to protect user data. One of the key security features is the use of 256 Bit SSL encryption, which is one of the strongest encryption technologies available. This encryption technology ensures that all your data remains secure while it is stored or transmitted.

So, long story short - yes, DigiLocker is safe to use! With government backing, tight security measures, and a user-friendly interface, it's a secure and convenient solution for document management.

Benefits of DigiLocker

DigiLocker is a government initiative that has proven to be beneficial to both citizens and government agencies. It offers a range of advantages that make it a must-have tool for every individual.

1. As we previously discussed, one of the key advantages of using DigiLocker is the convenience of accessing your documents anytime, anywhere. This is undoubtedly a valuable benefit that can save a significant amount of time and effort for all, especially in situations where physical documents are difficult to retrieve or are misplaced.
2. DigiLocker proves to be a boon by promoting a paperless future that helps conserve natural resources as well as reduces waste and pollution. By eliminating the need for physical copies of documents, DigiLocker offers an organised digital space for storing and sharing official documents.
3. DigiLocker is an effective cloud-based service that provides various advantages. Among its key benefits is the capability to eliminate the requirement for external assistance in delivering documents. By enabling government agencies to upload documents directly, the platform enables easy access for authorised users.
4. DigiLocker acts as a powerful tool in fighting corruption. The online process of uploading and verifying documents on the platform eliminates any human interaction. Thus, no more bribing officials to renew your lost document.
5. The security of documents is a priority for everyone. The fact that DigiLocker is regulated by government protocols is an indication of its high level of security. The platform offers multiple layers of protection to ensure that user data remains secure and confidential. With its advanced encryption algorithms and secure servers, DigiLocker guarantees the authenticity of the documents, making the verification process hassle-free and reliable.
6. Another benefit of DigiLocker is its user-friendly interface, which allows users to easily navigate the platform and access their documents. With its mobile app and website, users can access their documents on the go, making it a convenient solution for busy individuals who need to access their documents frequently.
7. DigiLocker is a lifesaver for both residents and government departments. No more endless paperwork and bureaucratic red tape! With this digital document management system, important documents are just a click away. The system reduces administrative overhead for government departments, making it easier for residents to receive services.
8. Are you aware of the best part? It's completely free!

Disadvantages of DigiLocker

Like everything in life, there are also some downsides (not many, if you ask me) to using DigiLocker. Let's take a look at some of the disadvantages of DigiLocker.

1. Only those who have an Aadhar card can use DigiLocker. It's like a VIP club that only lets in people with a membership card. If you don't have an Aadhar card, then you won’t get to use DigiLocker. And if you are one of those who still don't have an Aadhar card. Well, let me ask you, what rock are you living under?🤨
2. Not only do you need an Aadhaar card, but your mobile number also needs to be registered in India. So, if you're an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) and have an Aadhaar card, you still won't be able to access DigiLocker.
3. DigiLocker also has security concerns that endanger users’ data. Apparently, there was a vulnerability reported regarding the account data. Anyone with the username of the account could access the account's documents without even requiring a PIN or password.

While we've discussed some of the disadvantages of DigiLocker, it's important to remember that they're not deal-breakers. All of the disadvantages can be easily resolved and so they shouldn't stop you from taking advantage of the numerous benefits and features that DigiLocker has to offer.

At the end of the day, DigiLocker is still an incredibly useful tool for digital document storage and sharing. With its convenience and accessibility, DigiLocker makes it easy to keep all of your important documents in one place without the danger of losing them. So, don't let the disadvantages deter you from using DigiLocker.
Download the app, sign up, and start taking advantage of all the amazing features you get with DigiLocker. Trust me, you won't regret it!

How to Delete DigiLocker Account?

While the DigiLocker app is incredibly useful for storing and accessing important documents and certificates, there may be situations where you no longer need it. After all, it's your wish. Just follow the simple steps outlined below, and you'll be on your way to a clean slate in no time.

Step 1: Open the DigiLocker app on your device.

Step 2: Tap on the three lines at the top left corner of the screen to open the menu.

Step 3: Select the "Profile" option from the menu.

Step 4: On the profile screen, you will see the "Delete Account" option. Click on it.

Step 5: The app will ask you to confirm if you really want to delete your account. Tap on "Yes" to confirm.

Step 6: Done! Your account has been deleted. You will receive a confirmation message on the app.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, the DigiLocker app is a game-changer in the world of digital document management. This app makes it easy for individuals to store, access, and share their important documents from anywhere, anytime. With its robust security features and seamless integration with various government agencies, DigiLocker has become a go-to app for millions of Indians. It has not only simplified the process of document management but has also helped in reducing paper usage and contributing to a greener environment. With the growing popularity of DigiLocker, it is clear that this app is here to stay and will continue to revolutionize the way we manage our documents.