How To Check If Your Aadhaar Card Is Real or Fake

Follow a step-by-step guide, including online portal verification, mobile app authentication, and QR code validation. Ensure the legitimacy of your Aadhaar card to safeguard against identity-related issues.
How to check if your Aadhaar card is genuine?
5 min read
15 May 2025

Aadhaar verification is essential to protect yourself from identity theft and misuse. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) provides easy ways to verify Aadhaar online. This is especially helpful when you're hiring someone or renting out property, as it helps confirm the person's identity.

Your Aadhaar card contains important details like your name, date of birth, address, and mobile number—making it a key document. If these details fall into the wrong hands, they can be misused. That’s why UIDAI recommends keeping your registered mobile number and email ID updated at all times.

Wondering how to check if an Aadhaar card is real or fake? UIDAI offers a simple online tool to confirm its authenticity in just a few clicks.

Keeping a valid copy of your Aadhaar card also makes it easier to apply for financial products like a personal loan, where it's needed as a KYC document.

Why identifying fake Aadhaar cards is essential

  • Prevents identity fraud: Verifying an Aadhaar card helps protect against impersonation and misuse of personal details.
  • Protects against financial scams: It ensures the Aadhaar holder’s identity is genuine before initiating any financial transaction.
  • Secures digital services: Aadhaar verification helps prevent unauthorised access to online platforms and government schemes.
  • Ensures data accuracy: An Aadhaar card number check helps detect errors or inconsistencies in the cardholder’s information.
  • Builds trust: For organisations, verifying Aadhaar strengthens credibility when onboarding employees, tenants, or customers.

Common features of a genuine Aadhaar card

  • Includes security features: A genuine Aadhaar card contains specific security elements like a QR code, hologram, and micro text to prevent tampering or duplication.
  • Online verification ensures safety: Performing an Aadhaar card real or fake check online helps protect against identity theft and fraud.
  • Verifies personal details: Online Aadhaar verification allows you to confirm important information such as name, age, and address.
  • Essential for key transactions: Authentic Aadhaar verification is crucial for smooth processing of financial and official tasks like applying for a loan or opening a bank account.
  • Helps detect forged documents: The verification process helps identify fake or altered Aadhaar cards used in scams.

Process to verify your whether your Aadhaar card if real or fake

To verify if your Aadhaar card is real or fake, visit the official UIDAI website. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number in the verification section. You'll receive details confirming its validity, including registration status and demographic information. Ensure you use the official UIDAI platform for accurate results.

1. How to check the authenticity of an Aadhaar card through the portal?

  • To verify the authenticity of an Aadhaar card through the portal, visit the official UIDAI website.
  • Access the "Verify Aadhaar Number" service.
  • Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number along with the displayed security code.
  • Upon submission, the system will validate the provided Aadhaar number and display the verification status.

2. How to check the authenticity of an Aadhaar card through a mobile app?

  • For mobile app verification, the mAadhaar application, developed by UIDAI, enables users to carry a digital Aadhaar card on their smartphones.
  • The app also features a tool to check Aadhaar authentication history under the "My Aadhaar" section.
  • Providing insights into the instances and locations where the Aadhaar was used for authentication.

Also read: What is an aadhar card

3. How to check the authenticity of an Aadhaar card through a QR code?

  • UIDAI, a legislative authority established by the Indian government, embeds a secure QR code on every Aadhaar card, letter.
  • This QR code contains the Aadhaar number holder's secure and tamper-proof information, including name, gender, date of birth, address, and photograph.
  • Even if the card is tampered with, the information remains secure as it is digitally signed by UIDAI.
  • Use the Aadhaar QR scanner app, available on Google Play and the App Store, to read the QR code and ensure the Aadhaar card's authenticity.

Also read: How to apply for e-Aadhaar card

Remember to keep your Aadhaar details confidential, avoid sharing them with unauthorized entities. Regularly checking the authenticity of your Aadhaar card helps ensure the accuracy and security of your personal information. In case of any discrepancies or concerns, you should contact UIDAI for assistance. Stay vigilant and utilise the available verification methods to guarantee the legitimacy of your Aadhaar card.

If you require funds, it is beneficial to have access to essential documentation like the Aadhaar card. It can act as a critical supporting document while applying for a personal loan. Learn more about the documents required for a personal loan from Bajaj Finance.

Steps for organisations to prevent fake Aadhaar usage

Organisations must take proactive measures to prevent the misuse of fake Aadhaar cards. Here are key steps to ensure security:

  • Use UIDAI’s Aadhaar verification portal – Employers and financial institutions should verify Aadhaar details through UIDAI’s official website to check authenticity.
  • Validate QR codes – Every Aadhaar card has a QR code that can be scanned using the UIDAI QR code scanner to confirm its legitimacy.
  • Check digital signatures – The e-Aadhaar version is digitally signed by UIDAI. Organisations should verify this signature to ensure authenticity.
  • Conduct periodic audits – Regularly reviewing Aadhaar-linked records can help detect anomalies and prevent fraudulent activities.
  • Implement Aadhaar-based KYC – Organisations should integrate Aadhaar-based e-KYC for secure verification and prevent identity fraud.

Conclusion

In conclusion, verifying the authenticity of your Aadhaar card is essential for safeguarding your personal information and preventing identity fraud. By following the simple steps outlined in the blog, you can easily check your Aadhaar's validity on the official UIDAI website. This verification becomes particularly important when applying for services like a personal loan, where accurate identity documentation is crucial. Ensuring your Aadhaar card is genuine not only protects you but also facilitates a smoother application process for various financial services.

Additional read

How to Download e-Aadhaar Card

What is PVC Aadhaar Card

How to Link Aadhaar with PAN

All About Aadhaar Biometrics

10 Facts on Aadhaar

How to Update Date of Birth on Aadhaar Card

How to Change Address on Aadhaar

How to Fix Aadhaar Card Details Online

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Frequently asked questions

Can someone misuse my Aadhaar card?

Yes, if someone gains access to your Aadhaar details, they could potentially misuse it for identity theft or fraudulent activities. It's essential to safeguard your personal information.

How can I know if someone has used my Aadhaar card?

You can check your Aadhaar authentication history on the UIDAI website to see if any unauthorised usage has occurred.

How to lock an Aadhaar number to prevent misuse?

Visit the UIDAI portal and use the “Lock/Unlock Aadhaar” service to restrict access, ensuring your Aadhaar number cannot be used without your consent.

Can anyone withdraw money with an Aadhaar card?

Money can only be withdrawn using Aadhaar if it's linked to your bank account and verified with biometric authentication—ensuring added security.

How do I complain about a fake Aadhaar card?

Report a fake Aadhaar card by contacting UIDAI through their toll-free number or lodging a complaint on their website with relevant details.

How to report a fake Aadhaar card?

To report a fake Aadhaar card, contact UIDAI’s helpline or visit the official website. Provide details and any evidence you have, allowing them to investigate and take necessary action.

How to check Aadhaar card original or duplicate?

To check if an Aadhaar card is original, validate it on the UIDAI website or app. Ensure it has a digital signature.

Is there a difference between the original Aadhaar card and the printed Aadhaar card?

Original Aadhaar cards issued by UIDAI are digitally signed and considered valid. Printed Aadhaar cards lack this digital signature but can be used for identification.

Can I verify someone's Aadhaar card?

To verify someone's Aadhaar card, use the UIDAI website or mAadhaar app. Enter the Aadhaar number to verify its authenticity.

Can we authenticate Aadhaar online?

Yes, you can authenticate your Aadhaar online through the official UIDAI website. Simply enter your Aadhaar number in the verification section to confirm its validity and status.

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