How to Check and Report Misuse of Aadhaar Card

The Aadhaar card simplifies identity verification across India, but it is equally important to stay aware of potential risks. Many people wonder, can lost Aadhaar cards be misused? The answer is yes. If your Aadhaar falls into the wrong hands, it may be used for unauthorised SIM activation, opening bank accounts, or even applying for loans fraudulently. Such misuse can lead to identity theft and financial loss.

To reduce risks, enable the Aadhaar biometric lock feature, which prevents unauthorised biometric authentication. Always keep your Aadhaar details confidential and avoid sharing copies with unverified individuals or websites. Regularly check your authentication history through the official UIDAI portal.

If you notice suspicious activity, immediately report the issue to UIDAI or your local cybercrime cell. Taking proactive steps helps protect your identity and financial security.
 

What is Aadhaar Card fraud and its potential consequences?

Aadhaar card fraud happens when your personal details are accessed or used without consent, leading to serious cases of aadhar card misuse. This may include identity theft, unauthorised SIM activation, fraudulent loan applications, or cybercrimes carried out in your name. Such incidents can cause financial losses, legal complications, and long-term reputational damage.

To reduce risks, it is essential to secure your Aadhaar information and avoid sharing it with unverified websites or individuals. Regularly monitor authentication history and enable security features. Learning how to lock aadhaar card can add an extra layer of protection by disabling biometric authentication when not in use. Taking preventive steps early helps safeguard your identity and financial well-being.

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 is an effective step to protect yourself from aadhar card misuse and identity theft. If your details are accessed without permission, they can be used for fraudulent activities or even lead to situations where you may need to file a fake aadhar card complaint. Activating the lock feature restricts biometric authentication and prevents unauthorised verification attempts.

By temporarily disabling biometric access, you add an extra layer of security to your personal information. You can unlock it anytime when you need to complete legitimate authentication. This simple precaution significantly reduces the risk of financial fraud and helps keep your identity safe.
 

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.