How to Check and Report Misuse of Aadhaar Card

The Aadhaar card makes identity verification easier in India, but it also poses data security risks. You may ask, how can someone misuse my Aadhaar card? If exposed, it can be used for fraudulent activities like buying SIM cards, opening bank accounts, or even taking loans in your name. Similarly, can lost Aadhaar card be misused? Yes, if it falls into the wrong hands, it may lead to identity theft or financial fraud. Always keep your Aadhaar details private and avoid sharing them with unverified sources.
 

If you suspect any fraudulent activity, you should immediately file an Aadhaar card misuse complaint with UIDAI or local cybercrime authorities. Safeguarding your Aadhaar is essential to protect your identity and finances.
 

What is Aadhaar Card fraud and its potential consequences?

Misuse of Aadhaar card occurs when your Aadhaar details are exploited for unlawful activities like identity theft, cybercrimes, or fraudulent loans. Such misuse can result in financial loss, legal issues, and reputational harm. To protect yourself, it’s important to know how to check misuse of Aadhaar card by regularly monitoring your Aadhaar activity, securing your information, and avoiding sharing details with unverified sources.

Aadhaar card misuse has been reported in various cases, including:
 

• Fraudulent bank account openings using stolen Aadhaar details.
• Unauthorised access to government benefits like subsidies or pensions.
• Applying for loans or credit cards without the cardholder's consent.
• Circulation of Aadhaar photocopies on unauthorised platforms, leading to identity theft.
• Scammers cloning Aadhaar data for SIM card activation and illegal activities.
   

Such instances highlight the importance of safeguarding your Aadhaar details from potential fraud.
 

Additional Read: What is an Aadhaar Card?

Follow these steps to detect Aadhaar misuse:
 

1. Visit the UIDAI website: Access the official website.
2. Log in to your account: Use your Aadhaar number and OTP for verification.
3. Check Authentication History: Click on "Aadhaar Authentication History" under the Aadhaar services section.
4. Review transaction records: View all authentications linked to your Aadhaar.
    

If you notice suspicious activities, report them immediately to UIDAI. Staying informed is key to preventing misuse.

If you believe your Aadhaar details have been misused or suspect a fake Aadhaar card, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s how to report the issue:
 

1. Submit an Aadhaar card misuse complaint on the official UIDAI website or call the helpline at 1947.
2. Share key details, including your Aadhaar number, the nature of misuse, and any supporting documents.
3. For cases involving forged or fake documents, raise a fake Aadhaar card complaint with your local police station or nearest cybercrime cell.
    

Timely action can help protect your identity and prevent further misuse.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has clarified that the core biometric database is safe and cannot be breached. However, if you wish to take precautions and safeguard your identity and Aadhaar details, here is how you can go about it:
 

• Step 1: Visit the official website of UIDAI
• Step 2: Click on the ‘Lock/ Unlock Biometrics’ option under the ‘My Aadhaar’ drop-down menu
• Step 3: Enter your Aadhaar number
• Step 4: Confirm your identity through a security code or captcha on the screen
• Step 5: Wait for a one-time password (OTP) through a text message on your registered mobile number
• Step 6: Enter the OTP and a security key of your choice
• Step 7: You will be directed to a link giving you the option to enable biometric locking
• Step 8: Click on ‘Enable’. Here, your biometric information gets locked
   

Once your Aadhaar information is locked, there are certain things you need to bear in mind:

• You can no longer use biometrics as a primary authenticator
• Some bank transactions may fail because the bank will be unable to access the biometric information
• You can only unlock your card through an OTP sent to your phone

Follow these simple steps to lock Aadhaar biometrics through the mAadhaar app:
 

1. Download and open the mAadhaar app on your smartphone.
2. Log in using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
3. Go to the ‘Biometric Settings’ option.
4. Tap on ‘Lock Aadhaar Biometrics’ to enable protection.
5. Confirm your action to successfully secure your fingerprint and iris data.
    

Locking Aadhaar biometrics helps prevent unauthorised access and ensures identity safety.

To unlock your Aadhaar details, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official UIDAI website or use the mAadhaar app.
2. Select "Unlock Aadhaar" from the Aadhaar services section.
3. Enter your Aadhaar number or VID for identification.
4. Verify your details using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
5. Unlock your Aadhaar to enable biometric or demographic authentication.
    

This feature is temporary and can be locked again after use for enhanced security.
 

Additional read: Can you use your e-Aadhaar card as proof of identity?

Locking your Aadhaar card ensures your details are secure from unauthorised use. This feature disables biometric and demographic authentication, safeguarding against identity theft and fraudulent activities.
 

Key reasons to lock your Aadhaar card:

• Protect your data from misuse in financial and governmental transactions.
• Prevent unauthorised access to your Aadhaar-linked services.
   

Stay secure by using UIDAI’s locking feature regularly.
 

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to lock an Aadhaar card is essential to safeguard your personal details and prevent Aadhaar card misuse. Always secure your data, track Aadhaar activity, and adopt preventive measures. Especially when applying for personal loans, protecting your Aadhaar ensures a safe and seamless experience. Guard your identity today to enjoy worry-free access to financial services.