The Aadhaar card has become one of the most essential forms of identification for Indian residents, serving as a 12-digit unique ID that is widely used for accessing a range of government services, banking facilities, and telecom connections. Its use simplifies many administrative processes and provides easy access to a variety of services. However, despite its convenience, the Aadhaar system has also raised concerns about security. If not handled carefully, the data linked to Aadhaar can be vulnerable to misuse, and there have been numerous incidents where fraudsters have exploited stolen Aadhaar details for identity theft, financial fraud, and unauthorized access to services. Such exploitation can lead to a number of adverse consequences for victims, including blocked services, financial loss, and even legal complications due to actions that were carried out in their name without their consent.
While directly checking if your Aadhaar details are being misused is not possible, there are tools available that can help you monitor and review how your Aadhaar number has been used. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced a system that allows users to track their Aadhaar usage, helping them stay aware of any suspicious or unauthorized activity. This tool lets users review the transactions where their Aadhaar number has been used, including for activities like travel, banking, or accommodations. It provides a convenient way to stay informed about where your Aadhaar has been accessed and detect any potentially fraudulent activity.
To access this service, you can visit the myAadhaar portal, where you will be prompted to enter your Aadhaar number and a captcha code. After clicking on the option to "Login with OTP," an OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number. Entering the OTP will grant you access to your Aadhaar account. Once logged in, you can navigate to the “Authentication History” section, which allows you to select a specific date range for which you want to review your UID activity. By going through the authentication logs, you can identify if your Aadhaar details were used in any unfamiliar or unauthorized transactions. If you spot any suspicious activity, it’s crucial to report it to UIDAI immediately through their official communication channels. The helpline number is 1947, and you can also email your report to [email protected] for further assistance.
In addition to tracking Aadhaar usage, UIDAI provides an option to lock and unlock Aadhaar biometrics as an extra layer of security. Locking your Aadhaar biometrics ensures that even if someone gains unauthorized access to your Aadhaar details, they will not be able to misuse your biometric data. This feature adds an essential protective measure, especially given that biometric information is one of the most sensitive types of data linked to Aadhaar.
To lock your Aadhaar biometrics, you simply need to visit the official UIDAI website and navigate to the “Lock/Unlock Aadhaar” section. Before proceeding, it’s essential to carefully read the guidelines and instructions provided. You will need to enter your Virtual ID (VID), name, PIN code, and captcha code. After submitting this information, you will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number. Using the OTP, you can complete the process and successfully lock your Aadhaar biometrics.
Taking these steps to monitor your Aadhaar usage and lock your biometric data can significantly reduce the risk of misuse and protect your identity. Regularly checking your Aadhaar activity and using the lock feature ensures that your personal and sensitive information remains secure. In a world where data security is more important than ever, these proactive measures are essential for protecting yourself from potential fraud and unauthorized access.
