Aadhaar is India’s biometric identification program, offering a unique 12-digit identification number linked to individuals’ demographic and biometric data. It serves as a comprehensive proof of identity and address, facilitating access to government services and financial transactions. While facing privacy and security debates, Aadhaar remains integral to India’s digital identity ecosystem. Secure your Aadhaar information to effectively prevent misuse with these essential steps below.

To enhance security, UIDAI offers safety features like locking/unlocking the Aadhaar card, preventing official authentication when locked. To learn about how to lock / unlock Aadhaar biometrics, CLICK HERE. It’s crucial to be aware of Aadhaar card fraud, which involves attempting to change biometric or demographic details to impersonate the cardholder. To prevent such fraud, continue reading for further insights.

STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT AADHAAR CARD FRAUD:

• Biometric Lock: To prevent misuse, it’s important to lock your biometric information, which includes fingerprint scans, retinal scans, and facial images linked to your Aadhaar.
• Sharing OTPs: Misuse of Aadhaar details can occur when people share OTPs received on their mobile numbers or email IDs. Always inquire about the purpose before sharing your Aadhaar card number.
• Aadhaar download on public computers: If you download your Aadhaar on a public computer, ensure to delete the file and empty the recycle bin to avoid unauthorized access.
• Other preventive steps: Consider using masked Aadhaar cards, update your mobile number to avoid confusion, check your Aadhaar card’s authentication history regularly, and verify your Aadhaar card details before accepting any services. These steps help safeguard against Aadhaar card fraud.
• Use VID instead of Aadhaar: Virtual ID is a 16-digit code generated from the Aadhaar Number. It can be used for KYC and information verification, ensuring the safety of your personal data. Generating a new Virtual ID after each use adds an extra layer of security, making it a reliable alternative to the Aadhaar card.
• TOTP (time based OTP): The government has introduced a new feature called TOTP (time-based OTP) to address the issue of individuals or institutions requesting OTPs. With TOTP, users can generate a unique code from their Aadhaar card to avail services, minimizing the risk of misuse.
• Sharing details: To ensure the safety of your Aadhaar data, avoid sharing it with private organizations. Refrain from uploading your Aadhaar card on their websites unless they are trustworthy and secure.
• Beware of Phishing: Be wary of phishing attempts, especially emails, messages, or phone calls asking for your Aadhaar details. Verify the authenticity of the request before responding.
• Use Official UIDAI Services: Rely only on the official UIDAI website or mobile app for Aadhaar-related services. Avoid third-party apps or websites claiming to provide Aadhaar services.
• Regularly Monitor Aadhaar Activity: Periodically check your Aadhaar authentication history on the UIDAI website to ensure there are no unauthorized access attempts.

HOW TO FILE COMPLAINT REGARDING AADHAAR MISUSE / FRAUD:

1. Visit the official website of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) at https://www.uidai.gov.in./ 

2. Look for the “File a Complaint” or “Lodge a Grievance” section, typically found in the “Contact & Support” or “Help & Support” area.

3. Access the complaint form and provide necessary details, including your name, contact information, Aadhaar number, and a detailed description of the Aadhaar misuse incident.

4. Attach relevant documents as evidence, if available, to support your complaint, such as evidence of fraudulent transactions, unauthorized access attempts, or phishing incidents.

5. Submit the complaint through the UIDAI’s online portal.

6. Note down the complaint reference number you receive upon submission for future tracking.

7. Keep tabs on the status of your complaint using the provided complaint reference number, as the UIDAI will investigate the matter.

8. If you don’t receive a response or resolution within a reasonable time, you can reach out to the UIDAI helpline at 1947 (toll-free) or send an email to help@uidai.gov.in for further assistance.

COMMON PROBLEMS WITH AADHAAR AND THEIR SOLUTIONS:

1. Data Privacy Concerns: To protect personal data, UIDAI has implemented stringent security measures and encryption protocols. Users should avoid sharing Aadhaar details with unauthorized entities.

2. Linking Aadhaar with Services: UIDAI has simplified the process, enabling users to link online or seek assistance from nearby Aadhaar Centers.

3. Biometric Recognition Issues: Updating biometrics correctly and using alternate authentication methods if needed can resolve recognition problems.

4. Lost or Misplaced Aadhaar Card: Users can download e-Aadhaar using their registered mobile number or retrieve it from Aadhaar Enrollment Centers.

5. Authentication Delays: To expedite authentication, users should ensure proper network connectivity and retry if necessary.

6. Multiple Aadhaar Cards: Linking all cards to one primary card or requesting duplicate card cancellation can resolve this issue.

7. Incorrect Demographic Details: To avoid verification problems, individuals should promptly update any incorrect information through UIDAI’s website or Aadhaar Enrollment Centers.

8. Unauthorized Aadhaar Centers: Users should only visit authorized Enrollment Centers and ensure personnel follow proper procedures during enrollment.

9. Authentication Failures: If facing authentication issues, users can try alternative methods like biometric or OTP-based authentication. Ensuring updated demographic details can help with smoother authentication.

10. Aadhaar Card Not Received: Users can check the status online and contact UIDAI’s helpline for assistance in case of a delay. READ ABOUT HOW TO RECEIVE AADHAAR CARD.