How to Prevent Misuse of Aadhaar Card? Comprehensive Guide

An Aadhaar number is a unique identification number issued by the Indian government to the citizens. It is used as identity proof or address proof. Aadhaar can be used to acquire an internet connection, obtain a mobile number, and access government services. 

The multi-functional card comes with a bunch of misuse if not handled carefully. That’s why it is very important to protect this information. By gaining access to information, cybercriminals can steal money or commit any crime that will eventually trace back to you. 

To beware of these crimes, it is important to know how to prevent the misuse of Aadhaar card.  

Let’s get to know more about it in this blog! 

Aadhaar Card Fraud 

Aadhaar card fraud includes manipulation or unauthorized access to a unique ID. The misuse of Aadhaar can lead to some serious problems as many personal details are linked to it. Fraudsters can use Aadhaar for Identity Theft, financial crimes and many other malicious crimes. 

Misuse of Aadhaar card can jeopardize the security of personal information associated with it. To prevent this misuse, some protective measures can be considered. For example, you can check authentication history, you can lock your Aadhaar biometrics, and you can also use masked Aadhaar. 

How to Prevent Misuse of Aadhaar Card 

1. Check Aadhaar Authentication History 

To prevent misuse of your Aadhaar card, you should first check your Aadhaar authentication history. 

Steps to Check Authentication History:

(a) Go to myAadhaar portal- https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/login 

(b) Login with Aadhaar and OTP 

(c) Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and log in

(d) Click on ‘Authentication History’

(e) Under ‘Select Modality’ you have to select ‘All’ and enter the starting date and end date from which you want to get the Authentication History

2. Lock Aadhaar Biometrics 

UIDAI gives the option for Aadhaar card holders to Lock/Unlock the Aadhaar biometrics to prevent any misuses.  

Steps to Lock/Unlock Aadhaar Biometrics 

(a) Go to myAadhaar portal  

(b) Click on “Lock/Unlock Biometrics” 

(c) Enter your Aadhaar card number and click on ‘Get OTP’ 

(d) Enter the OTP  

(e) Click on the locking feature 

(f) Now your Aadhaar biometrics are locked 

(g) You can do the same to unlock the Aadhaar biometrics 

3. Use Virtual Aadhaar ID 

Virtual ID is a 16-digit number which can be used in place of the actual Aadhaar number. 

Steps to Generate Virtual ID:  

(a) Go to myAadhaar portal 

(b) Click on "Generate Virtual ID”

(c) Enter your Aadhaar card number 

(d) Click on Send OTP  

(e) Enter OTP to get the Virtual ID 

4. Use Masked Aadhaar 

It is necessary for you to not share Aadhaar number. The Aadhaar card contains information that criminals can misuse. Masked Aadhaar card only shows 4 digits of the card and does not show the first 8 digits.  

Steps to Get Masked Aadhaar: 

(a) Go to myAadhaar portal 

(b) Login with the Aadhaar number 

(c) Click on “Download Aadhaar” 

(d) Choose ‘Yes’ when it asks, ‘Do you want a masked Aadhaar?’ 

(e) Then you’ll get a masked Aadhaar card  

Preventative Measures to Secure Your Aadhaar

1. Do Not Use Public Wi-Fi 

While sharing personal information, sometimes you forget that you are in public premises using public wi-fi. And your data is out in the open for cybercriminals to steal important information. As your Aadhaar card is linked with bank accounts and your mobile number, this enhances the chances of financial loss and identity theft. So, if you want to share your personal information, make sure to create a private network with your mobile’s hotspot. 

2. Avoid Sharing OTPs 

Never share OTPs with anyone other than the authorized party. Sharing OTP with an unauthorized party will lead to you losing the credibility of your document and paving out a way for fraudsters to commit crimes.  

3. Do Not Share Aadhaar Card Details Publicly 

Sharing your Aadhaar card details publicly can jeopardize the security of your personal information. Any cybercriminal can get the hang of it and misuse it to commit fraud.  

Conclusion 

In today’s digital age, Aadhaar plays an important role by being an essential part of the personal system. That’s why protecting this information is necessary for you. Any misuse can lead to financial loss and identity theft. 

To reduce the risk of any misuse, you can take preventive measures such as locking biometrics, checking authentication history and generating Virtual ID.  

Aadhaar is not just a card, but it is more than that, it can be used for identification purposes. That’s why you need to take necessary preventative measures to keep your Aadhaar card information protected. Do not share your OTP, do not use public wi-fi while sharing information or share Aadhaar card details publicly. 

To know more about Aadhaar card related queries issue you can go to Digilawyer.ai. Digilawyer, your AI Lawyer, can help you with how to prevent misuse of your Aadhaar card.