Aadhaar Card Fraud Protection: In an era of rising digital fraud, Aadhaar cards are a prime target for misuse in scams like SIM fraud, bank fraud, and identity theft. The Secure QR Code allows instant verification without requiring an OTP or internet, making it ideal for transactions with banks, telecom providers, employers, or landlords. By identifying fake or altered Aadhaar cards, it protects individuals and organizations from fraudulent activities, ensuring secure and trustworthy identity checks.
With the surge in cyber fraud and identity theft, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced a robust security feature: the Secure QR Code on Aadhaar cards. This tamper-proof tool, embedded in e-Aadhaar, m-Aadhaar, and PVC Aadhaar cards, is designed to combat fake Aadhaar frauds, ensuring quick and reliable identity verification. Here’s how to use it, why it’s critical, and how it safeguards your identity in today’s digital age.
What is the Aadhaar Secure QR Code?
The Secure QR Code is a digitally signed feature by UIDAI, containing masked demographic details like name, date of birth, gender, address, photograph, and partially obscured mobile number and email ID. Embedded during Aadhaar generation, it uses a 2048-bit digital signature to ensure authenticity. Unlike older QR codes that only held basic demographic data, this upgraded version includes a photo and is tamper-proof, making it a powerful tool for offline Aadhaar verification.
How Does the Secure QR Code Work?
The QR code is digitally signed by UIDAI, ensuring its data cannot be manipulated. When scanned, it displays verified details like the cardholder’s name, photo, and other demographics. If a fake QR code is used, the scanner will show a “QR Code not verified” message, alerting the user to potential fraud. This real-time validation, backed by UIDAI’s digital signature, makes the process secure and reliable, even offline.uidai.gov.in
How to Use the Aadhaar QR Scanner App?
To verify an Aadhaar card, follow these simple steps: Download the App, Install the Aadhaar QR Scanner or mAadhaar app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Alternatively, use UIDAI’s Windows-based QR Code Reader for desktops (available at uidai.gov.in).play.google.com. Open the Scanner, Launch the app and select the QR code scanning option.
Scan the QR Code, Point your device’s camera at the QR code on the Aadhaar card (physical, e-Aadhaar, or m-Aadhaar). Check Verification, If authentic, the app displays verified details like name, photo, and DOB. If fake, a “QR Code not verified” message appears. Take a screenshot or note the details for records. For older Aadhaar cards without the Secure QR Code, download an updated e-Aadhaar from uidai.gov.in.deepvue.tech.
Stay Safe from Aadhaar Fraud
To protect yourself, avoid sharing your Aadhaar number on public platforms like social media, just as you wouldn’t share your PAN or bank details. Regularly update your registered mobile number and email on the mAadhaar app for seamless access to services. If you suspect fraud, contact UIDAI at 1947 or via email. The Secure QR Code is a game-changer in ensuring Aadhaar authenticity, empowering every citizen to stay fraud-proof.