In today’s digital age, the Aadhaar card has become an integral part of every Indian’s life. This powerful 12-digit identity number opens doors to essential services, from banking to welfare schemes. But with such importance comes the risk of misuse. In recent years, reports of Aadhaar-based fraud have become alarmingly common, with cybercriminals exploiting Aadhaar information to commit banking fraud and identity theft. Fortunately, protecting your Aadhaar card from misuse is in your hands.
The Dangers of Aadhaar Card Misuse
Your Aadhaar card holds sensitive personal information that can be a target for fraudsters. With unauthorized access, criminals can tamper with your Aadhaar details, posing a serious threat to your finances and identity. There are cases where people have lost lakhs due to Aadhaar-linked scams. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has shared essential guidelines to help every Aadhaar holder keep their identity secure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Protecting Your Aadhaar Card
Step 1: Visit the UIDAI Website
Begin by visiting the official UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/. From here, you’ll be able to access a variety of Aadhaar services, including biometric locking options that secure your Aadhaar from unauthorized access.
Step 2: Access Aadhaar Services
On the UIDAI homepage, scroll down until you see Aadhaar Services. Under this section, look for the Lock/Unlock Biometrics option, which will lead you to the biometric security settings for your Aadhaar card.
Step 3: Generate a Virtual ID (VID)
Before locking your Aadhaar, you need to create a Virtual ID (VID), a secure 16-digit number that replaces your Aadhaar number for verification purposes. Visit https://resident.uidai.gov.in/genericGenerateOrRetriveVID to generate or retrieve your VID. Enter your Aadhaar number and the captcha code, then click on “Generate.”
Step 4: Lock Your Aadhaar Biometrics
With your VID in hand, return to the Lock/Unlock Biometrics section and follow the steps to lock your Aadhaar. By enabling this feature, you can secure your biometrics, such as fingerprints and iris scans, from unauthorized access.
How to Safely Share Your Aadhaar: Use a Masked Aadhaar
If you need to share your Aadhaar, you can protect your full Aadhaar number by downloading a Masked Aadhaar. This version only reveals the last four digits, offering an extra layer of security.
- Visit the UIDAI website and go to the My Aadhaar section.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and captcha to initiate the process.
- You’ll receive an OTP on your registered mobile number. Enter it to complete the verification.
- After verification, select Download Aadhaar and check the option to Download Masked Aadhaar.
With these steps, you can download a masked version of your Aadhaar card, keeping your full Aadhaar number hidden.
Protecting Your Aadhaar Is Protecting Your Future
In a world where personal data is increasingly at risk, taking steps to protect your Aadhaar card is vital. By locking your biometrics and using a masked Aadhaar, you can shield your identity from prying eyes. Remember, safeguarding your Aadhaar isn’t just about protecting a card; it’s about securing your future and your peace of mind. Let’s all do our part to protect our identities—one Aadhaar card at a time.
