CoWin Introduces Four-Digit Security Code Requirement
The CoWIN system will implement a new feature requiring a four-digit security code starting May 8, aimed at reducing data entry errors related to vaccination status and minimizing inconvenience for citizens, announced the health ministry. Some instances have been observed where citizens, despite booking their vaccination appointment through the CoWIN portal, received SMS notifications erroneously indicating that a vaccine dose had been administered to them, even though they did not receive the vaccine on the scheduled date.
Upon investigation, these errors were primarily attributed to vaccinators incorrectly marking citizens as vaccinated, highlighting data entry mistakes by the vaccinator.
Implementation of Four-Digit Security Code
To mitigate such errors and subsequent inconveniences, the CoWIN system will introduce a new feature of a four-digit security code in the CoWIN application effective May 8. After verifying eligibility, the vaccinator will ask the beneficiary for their four-digit code before administering the vaccine dose. Subsequently, the verifier/vaccinator will enter the code into the CoWIN system to accurately record the vaccination status.
This feature will be applicable exclusively to citizens who have made an online booking for a vaccination slot. The four-digit security code will be printed on the appointment acknowledgment slip and included in the confirmation SMS sent to the beneficiary after successfully booking an appointment. Beneficiaries can save and present the appointment acknowledgment slip from their mobile devices.
Ensuring Accurate Vaccination Records
This measure aims to ensure that vaccination status data entries for citizens who have booked appointments online are accurately recorded. Additionally, it will reduce opportunities for impersonation and misuse of CoWIN flexibilities intended to facilitate vaccination coverage.
The ministry advises citizens to carry a digital or physical copy of their appointment slip and the registered mobile phone containing the appointment confirmation SMS. Furnishing the security code to the vaccinator will facilitate the completion of the vaccination recording process.
Confirmation Process and Follow-up
The digital certificate will be generated only after the vaccination record has been updated with the security code. Citizens should expect a confirmation SMS indicating the successful completion of the vaccination process and the generation of the digital certificate. In case a confirmation SMS is not received, individuals are advised to contact the vaccinator or the vaccination center in-charge for assistance.
