What You Need to Know and How to Use It » Voice of Nigeria
Unleash the potential of NIN Tokenization.
Learn all the vital details and master the art of using it like a pro.
Explore the world of NIN Tokenization and revolutionize your digital transactions.
A Comprehensive Guide to NIN Tokenization: Protecting Your Identity: Data privacy is an ever-evolving field. With the advent of technology, protecting personal information becomes more crucial than ever.
To address this, the Nigerian government, via the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), introduced the concept of National Identification Number (NIN) tokenization.
This innovation is set to revolutionize the way personal data is managed, offering heightened security while maintaining ease of use.
Understanding the Basics of NIN Tokenization
NIN Tokenization is a system designed to enhance the security and confidentiality of citizens’ NIN data.
It works by replacing the actual NIN with a cryptographically secure, encoded equivalent known as a token.
The objective? To shield the personal information of NIN holders while allowing the continued facilitation of transactions.
The Primary Goal of NIN Tokenization
At the heart of the NIN Tokenization process is the simple yet profound vision of safeguarding personal information.
As outlined by NIMC’s Director-General, Engr Aliyu Aziz, this protective measure will substantially reduce the potential for illicit acquisition, misuse, transmission, and storage of the NIN.
The Use of Tokens Over Actual NIN
Tokens serve as a safe stand-in for the actual NIN during transactions.
This measure will be instrumental in curbing the frequency of unlawful data breaches.
Accessibility and Compatibility
A further benefit of this tokenization process is the ability to access visual and high-security representations of the National e-ID on iOS and Android smartphones.
This feature provides convenience and adaptability to users while maintaining a high level of security.
Full Implementation of NIN Tokenization
It’s essential to note that the NIMC has set the full implementation of the Tokenization to commence from January 1, 2023.
This ensures adequate preparation for a smooth transition into this new era of digital identification.
A Closer Look at How NIN Tokenization Works
So, how does this innovative system function?
NIN tokenization leverages digital technology to produce a unique, encrypted representation of your NIN— the Virtual NIN (VNIN).
This token can be used in lieu of your NIN for various transactions.
What is the Virtual NIN?
Virtual NIN, or VNIN, is a 16-digit alphanumeric code that serves as the digital equivalent of your NIN.
The tokens are generated on-demand and can be used for transactions requiring NIN verification.
Using Your Virtual NIN
VNIN can be utilized for digital identity verification with any verifying agent or enterprise, including but not limited to banks, airports, and shopping delivery services.
Users can generate VNIN through the NIMC MWS Mobile ID app, available on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
How to Obtain the VNIN Token
To access the VNIN token, users must have a National Identity Number (NIN) issued by the NIMC and a mobile phone registered in Nigeria and linked to the NIN.
The Benefits of NIN Tokenization
The introduction of NIN tokenization brings with it a myriad of benefits.
Enhanced Data Privacy
The primary advantage of tokenization is the enhanced protection it offers to your data.
Previously, your NIN would have been stored by various service providers, potentially without your consent. With the introduction of tokenization, this is no longer a concern.
Limited Access to NIN
Tokenization ensures that access to your actual NIN is heavily restricted, providing additional layers of security.
Merchant-Specific Tokens
A unique feature of VNIN tokens is that they are merchant-specific. This means a token generated for one company cannot be used by another, providing an extra layer of security to your transactions.
Updating Your NIN Slip
In conjunction with the introduction of NIN tokenization, the NIMC has also announced the phasing out of the current NIN slip. A new, improved slip can now be downloaded and printed from the NIMC portal. This handy identification fits easily into your pocket, purse, or wallet.
FAQs
- What is NIN tokenization?
NIN tokenization is a process that replaces your actual National Identification Number (NIN) with a cryptographically secure, encoded token during transactions, enhancing the protection of your personal data. - How does NIN tokenization work?
Users generate a 16-digit alphanumeric Virtual NIN (VNIN) via the NIMC MWS Mobile ID app, which can be used instead of their actual NIN for various transactions. - What are the benefits of NIN tokenization?
NIN tokenization enhances data privacy, restricts unauthorized access to your NIN, and provides merchant-specific tokens for safer transactions. - How can I obtain a VNIN token?
To access the VNIN token, you must have a NIN issued by NIMC and a mobile phone registered in Nigeria and linked to the NIN. You can then generate the token through the NIMC MWS Mobile ID app. - What happens to my old NIN slip?
The NIMC has announced that the current NIN slips will be phased out gradually. A new, improved slip can be downloaded and printed from the NIMC portal.
