Your Aadhaar card is under threat! In brief, know how to protect it

The Unique Identification Authority of India or UIDAI has listed out some precaution measures for Aadhaar holders to secure their details while using and sharing their Aadhaar numbers. As per UIDAI, the Aadhaar eco-system has evolved into a vital digital identity infrastructure hence there is nothing to do with security of Aadhaar or its database. But Aadhaar contains crucial information and is linked to bank accounts and others. It might land you into trouble, if it goes in the wrong hands. Hence, The UIDAI today asked Aadhaar users to take "due precautions” while sharing their personal information such as Aadhaar number on the internet or elsewhere.

Here are some simple and useful security tips that you must keep in mind while using and sharing your Aadhaar card number.

Precautions to take while sharing or using your Aadhaar card number

1. Always download your Aadhaar card only from official UIDAI’s official website- https://eaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/genricDownloadAadhaar.

2. Try to avoid downloading your Aadhaar card on a public computer/laptop at an internet cafe/kiosk. However, if you have to, then ensure that you delete all the downloaded copies of e-Aadhaar from the system. Also check Recycle Bin as the downloaded documents and files often remain there even after deleting it from the computer.

3. Secure your data by locking/unlocking Aadhaar online to prevent any possible misuse by anyone. You can do so by using mAadhaar app or click on the link: https://resident.uidai.gov.in/aadhaar-lockunlock. Do note that your VID or Virtual ID is mandatory for this service. It is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped with the Aadhaar number. 

4. Keep a check on your Aadhaar authentication history regularly. UIDAI allows users to check the Aadhaar authentication history of up to 50 authentications in the past 6 months. This will help you notice if there's an unintended authentication entry that has not been done by you. In case you find anything suspicious, report it to 1947 or help@uidai.gov.in. Also Read: Aadhaar Authentication: How to verify Aadhaar card details

5. Use VID or Masked Aadhaar, if you don’t want to disclose your Aadhaar number. It is valid and accepted widely. You can download it from https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/genricDownloadAadhaar

6. Update your mobile number in Aadhaar as this will help you to verify the same on UIDAI website easily. Also Read: How to carry out an Aadhaar card mobile number update

7. Never disclose your Aadhaar OTP and personal details to anyone. UIDAI never sends a call, SMS, or email asking for your Aadhaar OTP.