How to Protect Your Original Aadhaar Card and Why It’s at Risk

For Indian nationals, the Unique identity Authority of India (UIDAI) issues the Aadhaar card, which is a crucial form of identity. From opening a bank account to obtaining government services, it is extensively utilised. But because of its extensive use, the original Aadhaar card has also been targeted for fraud and other types of abuse. Your Aadhaar card may be stolen, manipulated, or misused if you’re not careful.

We’ll examine the causes of your Aadhaar card’s vulnerability in this post and offer helpful advice on how to protect it.

1. Risks of Identity Theft and Fraud

Sensitive information like Aadhaar numbers provides fraudsters easy access to government services, bank accounts, and loans. One of the key risks tied to Aadhaar is identity theft. Scammers can use your Aadhaar number and personal details to create fake accounts, secure financial services, or commit fraud in your name.

Phishing attacks are one of the advanced tactics cybercriminals use to steal personal information. In these scams, fraudsters trick individuals into revealing their Aadhaar details by sending fake emails or messages.

How to Protect Against Identity Theft:

• Keep your Aadhaar number confidential: Never share your Aadhaar number on social media or unsecured websites.
• Avoid phishing scams: Do not click on suspicious links or respond to unsolicited messages asking for your Aadhaar details.
• Enable OTP authentication: Use One-Time Password (OTP) for transactions and applications to verify the authenticity of requests.

2. Duplication of Aadhaar Cards

Additionally, you run the danger of having a duplicate Aadhaar card. The spread of phoney Aadhaar cards is still an issue, despite the UIDAI’s strong mechanism to stop duplication. Using stolen information, some scammers might make duplicate cards, which could result in unlawful actions being taken in your name.

How to Prevent Aadhaar Duplication:

• Use the Aadhaar Authentication System: UIDAI’s official website offers an authentication system that allows you to check if your Aadhaar card has been used for any unauthorized activity.
• Report suspicious activities: If you believe there is a duplication of your Aadhaar card, report it immediately to UIDAI to block any fraudulent activity.

3. Unauthorised Biometric Data Access

Biometric data like fingerprints and iris scans are stored on the Aadhaar card. Even if the actual card is not stolen, identity fraud may result from the abuse of this biometric information. 2018 saw the discovery of a security flaw in the Aadhaar system that might permit illegal access to biometric information. Even though UIDAI has subsequently resolved these problems, data leaks and cyberattacks are still possible.

How to Safeguard Your Biometric Data:

• Be cautious with biometric authentication: Always ensure that biometric information is being used securely by trusted sources.
• Monitor your transactions: Regularly check your bank and other accounts for unusual activity that could indicate misuse of your biometric data.

4. Financial Fraud and Loan Abuse Using Aadhaar

The possibility of fraudulent loans and financial transactions is among the most concerning issues connected to the abuse of Aadhaar cards. Your credit history could be harmed and financial difficulties could result if someone used your Aadhaar credentials to apply for loans in your name or access other financial services.

How to Protect Against Financial Fraud:

• Check your credit score regularly: Make it a habit to review your credit score and report any unauthorized transactions immediately.
• Secure your mobile number and email: Fraudsters often gain access to your Aadhaar-linked phone number to verify transactions. Protect your accounts with strong passwords and two-factor authentication.

5. Ignorance and Dangerous Data Management

Many people don’t know how to manage their Aadhaar-linked data or how to safely handle their Aadhaar cards. You run the risk of having your Aadhaar card misused if you don’t take the right precautions, including sharing it freely or keeping a physical copy at home.

How to Secure Your Aadhaar Card:

• Avoid sharing physical copies unnecessarily: Only share your Aadhaar card when absolutely necessary and through secure channels.
• Store your card safely: If you must keep a physical copy, store it in a secure location like a locked drawer or safe.
• Digital storage: If you store your Aadhaar card digitally, ensure that the files are encrypted and password-protected.

6. How to Lock Your Aadhaar and Unlink It

To stop misuse, the UIDAI offers a facility that allows you to lock your Aadhaar number. An additional degree of protection is added when your Aadhaar is locked, making it impossible to use for any transactions or verification.

How to Lock Aadhaar Online:

• Visit the official UIDAI website and log in to your account.
• Go to the “Aadhaar Locking” section.
• Click on the “Lock” option, which will block access to your Aadhaar for any unauthorized users.
• To unlock it, simply follow the same process.

conclusion

Although the Aadhaar card is now a vital component of India’s administrative and digital infrastructure, there are a number of security issues with it. Cardholders are seriously threatened by fraud, identity theft, and illegal access to biometric information. You may protect your identity and stop misuse by taking proactive steps to protect your Aadhaar card and adhering to the above-mentioned suggestions.

Remember that the best defence against fraud or identity theft is to be aware of how your Aadhaar data is used and to keep it safe. Always notify UIDAI of any questionable activity, and take precautions to keep an eye on your personal and financial data on a regular basis.