This Aadhaar Card will NOT be VALID; Don't do this, alerts UIDAI

UIDAI posted a warning tweet on Twitter today that warns against buying of PVC Aadhaar cards from the open market, as they may not carry the security features. Such an Aadhaar card will not be valid. In recent times, many sellers across India have been offering printing out Aadhaar cards as a convenient way of getting a physical card. However, notifying people of its downside, UIDAI said they will not be valid if they do not carry all the security requirements of the Aadhaar Card.

In a separate tweet, UIDAI said that people should use the official portal to order their PVC Aadhaar card. The process will charge Rs. 50 and holders will be sent their card via speed post. UIDAI further assured that once an application is submitted, the PVC Aadhaar card will be dispatched in 5 working days and AWB or Air Waybill (receipt) will be shared with the holder’s mobile phone through an SMS.

What are the PVC Aadhaar card security features

While the main identification of an individual is normally done through their name, photograph and Aadhaar number, there have been many cases where scammers have been faking identity by using someone else’s Aadhaar card. This is where the security features of PVC Aadhaar cards become important. The official PVC Aadhaar card has many recognizable features that act as the official identification of the card and separates out the fakes.

Every PVC Aadhaar card must have a secure QR code, hologram, micro text, Ghost image, issue and print date, Guilloche Pattern and an embossed Aadhaar logo. If your Aadhaar card does not have even one of these features, then it is not valid.

And this is the problem that arises when people get their PVC Aadhaar card from sources outside of government. A common seller may have the right PVC material and know the right size of the card to cut, but they will not be able to add all these security features that secure your Aadhaar card as well as your identity.

How to get the official PVC Aadhaar card

If you want to get a PVC Aadhaar card without risking not having the security feature, then you must follow the following steps.

Step 1: First, go to the official portal using the url: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/genricPVC

Step 2: Once on the page, you need to enter your Aadhaar number and a random captcha.

Step 3: If your phone number is not registered, you will have to enter it as well.

Step 4: After that, press the ‘Send OTP’ button.

Step 5: Once you receive the OTP on your phone, enter that in the next screen.

Step 6: Once verified, you will have to make a payment of Rs. 50 online.

Step 7: After that, you will get a message on the screen telling you that your Aadhaar card will be sent to you soon.

Step 8: As per UIDAI, your PVC Aadhaar card should be dispatched within 5 working days and you should receive an AWB to help you track it.