Is Your Aadhaar Secure? Here's How to Track Who's Using Your Number!

In today’s digital age, your Aadhaar number is your key to accessing a wide range of services. Whether it’s booking a train ticket, opening a bank account, or applying for government schemes, Aadhaar has become an integral part of our daily lives. However, with its increasing use, the risk of misuse has also grown. Scammers are always looking for ways to exploit it for fraudulent activities, which makes protecting your Aadhaar details more important than ever.

But how do you know if someone is misusing your Aadhaar number? Thankfully, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) provides tools that allow you to monitor any unauthorized use of your Aadhaar. Let’s take a look at how you can stay ahead of any potential misuse and keep your Aadhaar safe.

Track Your Aadhaar Usage with UIDAI's Authentication History

One of the most effective ways to track any suspicious activity tied to your Aadhaar is by using the Authentication History feature on the UIDAI’s myAadhaar portal. This feature lets you view a list of all the times your Aadhaar number was used for verification. It's a simple yet powerful tool to ensure that no one is using your details without your consent. Here’s how to access it:

1. Visit the myAadhaar Portal

Go to the official myAadhaar portal to get started. This is where you can manage all your Aadhaar-related activities.

2. Login Using OTP

Enter your Aadhaar number and the captcha code on the portal. Choose “Login With OTP,” and a one-time password (OTP) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP to log in.

3. Check Your Authentication History

Once logged in, go to the Authentication History section. Here, you can select the time period you’d like to check, whether it’s the last week, month, or a custom range.

4. Review the Details

Look over the list of transactions. You’ll be able to see where and how your Aadhaar was used for verification. If anything seems unfamiliar or suspicious, it's time to take action!

What to Do if You Spot Unauthorised Activity

If you notice anything unusual or suspect your Aadhaar has been used without your knowledge, don’t panic. Take the following steps to protect yourself:

Call UIDAI’s Helpline: Dial 1947 to speak to a representative who can help resolve your issue.
Email UIDAI: Alternatively, you can email your concerns to help@uidai.gov.in. Be sure to include any relevant information to help them investigate.

Protect Your Aadhaar with Biometric Locking

Want to add an extra layer of security? Consider locking your biometric data. UIDAI allows you to lock your biometrics (such as fingerprints and iris scans) to prevent anyone from using them for authentication without your permission. Even if someone gains access to your Aadhaar number, they won’t be able to misuse your biometrics if they are locked.

How to Lock Your Biometrics:

Visit the UIDAI Website: Go to the official UIDAI website and navigate to the Lock/Unlock Biometrics section.
Enter Your Details: Provide your Virtual ID (VID), name, PIN code, and the captcha code.
Authenticate with OTP: You’ll receive an OTP on your registered mobile number. Enter it to proceed.
Lock Your Biometrics: Once authenticated, you can securely lock your biometrics. This adds a strong layer of protection to your Aadhaar data.

Remember, you can unlock your biometrics whenever you need to use them for verification, but keeping them locked when not in use is a great way to protect yourself.

Stay Vigilant: Regularly Monitor Your Aadhaar Activity

Checking your Aadhaar activity shouldn’t be a one-time thing. It’s a good practice to monitor it regularly—especially if you’ve shared your Aadhaar number with multiple institutions. By keeping an eye on your authentication history, you can quickly detect any unauthorized use and take swift action to prevent further misuse.

Keep Your Aadhaar Details Updated

To further safeguard your Aadhaar, make sure your details are always up to date. UIDAI recommends updating your Aadhaar if:

You haven’t updated it in the last 10 years.
You’ve experienced a change in your biometric data (like after an accident affecting your fingerprints).
Your child’s biometric data needs updating when they turn 15, as children’s biometric information changes over time.

Conclusion: Stay Proactive and Secure Your Aadhaar

Your Aadhaar is a powerful tool for identity verification, but it’s crucial to stay proactive in ensuring its security. By regularly checking your Aadhaar usage, locking your biometrics, and keeping your details updated, you can protect yourself from misuse.

A few simple steps can help you secure your Aadhaar and continue to enjoy the convenience it offers without worry. So, take control of your security today—check your Aadhaar activity, lock your biometrics, and stay safe in the digital world!