2 Easy Ways to Generate Virtual NIN for Sim Registration – All Networks

There is a navigational part on the MWS Mobile App that include the Virtual NIN, users QR codes, user identifiers, and the verification log details. All these form what is known as NIN tokens. Collectively, these elements act as a device to encapsulate an individual’s National Identification Number (NIN). NIN token’s primary purpose is to ensure the protection of people’s data privacy.

Individuals are allowed to use digital NIN tokens, such as VNINs, instead of the actual NIN while registering or verifying their identity. This method enables one to employ distinct digitized versions of their NIN that guarantee even greater supple privacy protection than disclosing the actual NIN.

So let’s talk about why you came to read this article in the first place.

What are Virtual NINs

A Virtual NIN is a token and its example is BH123456789000CD. Alphanumeric tokens like these can be used in any form of registration permitted using the holder’s NIN. The virtual NIN assists a person in confirming their identity during government business, financial services, and other official registrative activities. Its usage extends to diverse registrations demonstrating versatility.

The virtual NIN (VNIN) shares characteristics with a recharge pin. For example, a single recharge card cannot recharge a line more than once; attempting to do so results in an error message stating, “This card has already been used by you or by another customer.” Similarly, telecom agents cannot register multiple SIM cards using a single virtual NIN.

For me, I believe that virtual NIN is a protocol established to safeguard against misuse and unauthorized activities. Virtual NIN expires within 72 of non usage. Therefore after generating the token, make sure to use it within the speculated timeframe.

Moreover, each Virtual NIN is allocated a prefix for distinguishing between telecom providers. MTN VNIN is associated with the “MX” prefix tag, Airtel with “BH,” GLO with “GG,” and 9mobile with the “ST” prefix. This assigned prefix facilitates agents in identifying the telecom firm to which a specific Virtual NIN belongs.

Additionally, Every enterprise Virtual NIN is exclusive to its respective enterprise registration. This implies that a generated MTN VNIN cannot be utilized for Airtel SIM registration, and the same principle applies to other networks.

How to Generate Virtual NIN for Sim Card Registration.

There are mainly two ways that VNIN can be generated and they are: Via the use of USSD code and the use of MWS Mobile ID app.

USSD Code Method

in order to generate VNIN via the USSD code, an enterprise ID is required. Below are the enterprise IDs for each telecom company

Steps to generate Virtual NIN using USSD Code

• Dial *346#
• Enter option 3 (Virtual NIN)
• Enter your 11 digit NIN number
• Input the enterprise ID also known as Agent code

Alternatively, you can dial a one time code in the format: *346*3*NIN*Enterprise code# e.g *346*3*12345678900*970611#.

Upon request, your Virtual NIN (VNIN) will be delivered to you through SMS.

Please keep in mind that there is a fee of N20 attached to each VNIN created through USSD. While one is allowed to create several VNINs, it is advisable to use the VNIN which was previously created before applying for another. Not using the previous VNIN will cause the system to generate the same VNIN, which will still attract the N20 fee.

Sometimes an error message such as “RECORD NOT FOUND” may occur when one tries to generate a Virtual NIN. This occurs because the NIN that was provided for VNIN generation does not exist.

Be sure to verify your 11 digit NIN and check if you typed it in properly. Should the error persist, then that means your NIN is indeed invalid and needs to be checked. For more information, visit your nearest NIMC Office.

Generating Virtual NIN with MWS Mobile ID App

You can also generate your VNIN with NIMC mobile App.

Steps to Generate VNIN Via The MWS App

• Install the App from Google play Store or App store
• Login the app with your 11 Digit NIN number
• Confirm OTP sent to the Phone number linked to your NIN. i.e during NIN enrollment
• Enter any 6 digit Pin of your choice and confirm the pin as well.
• Enter the same pin to login
• Click on get Virtual NIN
• Click on Search approved enterprises
• Select the enterprise to generate VNIN

Basic Highlights on what is discussed So Far

• Virtual NIN can only be used once per single registration
• It expires within 72 hours (3days) if not used
• Each enterprise Virtual NIN is given a unique prefix tag as a means of differentiation.
• It helps guard against the cloning of NIN during registration thereby preventing the multiple registration of sims.
• VNIN can be generated in particularly two ways: USSD and mobile app.
• Through the USSD method, it’s possible to generate a VNIN using any SIM, even if it doesn’t belong to you, as long as the sim has a balance of at least N20, and you are using your NIN for the generation process.

Wrapping Up

Choosing a Virtual NIN (VNIN) emerges as the safest option while registering a new SIM card as it helps in reducing the risks of NIN cloning during SIM activation.

With the introduction of VNIN in the registration phase, the risks of unauthorized duplication of National Identification Numbers (NIN) are eliminated to a great extent.

In the case of VNIN, its greatest strength is in minimizing the registration of numerous SIM cards to a single customer’s NIN. This strategically helps in preventing fraudulent activities, and guarantees that each customer’s NIN is linked to a particular SIM card.

Registration process security is greatly enhanced by the introduction of VNIN as well as the recent calls for greater data protection and identity fraud control.

The use of VNIN during SIM registration is yet another example of emerging technology that proactively seeks to improve the security infrastructure. In addition, it acts as another line of defense against threats and allows for better control of the registration process which in turn provides users with a more secure and dependable method for activating new SIM cards.

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