Aadhaar misuse alert: Here’s how to check where your Aadhaar and biometrics have been used technology

Aadhaar is an essential part of daily life in India. But at the same time, the risk of identity theft and unauthorized use of your biometric data is real. To give people peace of mind, UIDAI has set up an online tool so that you can see where and when your Aadhaar was used.

This tool lets you track all Aadhaar authentication activity. If something seems strange or unfamiliar, you’ll pick up on it faster.

How to check your Aadhaar authentication history

It sounds simple, as everything can be done online from the official UIDAI portal.

Here are the steps to follow to get certified. All you have to do is:

1. Go to My Aadhaar portal from your mobile or desktop/laptop.
2. Log in with your Aadhaar number
3. UIDAI will send a one-time password (OTP) (security code) to your registered mobile.
4. Once you get it, enter ‘Continue’. You will be inside.
5. Once you are inside, you will see ‘Authentication History’ written there.
6. Now, choose your date range (you are allowed to go back up to 6 months)
7. Then choose how you want to filter (biometric, OTP or both).
8. Once done, tap Submit

You will see a complete report showing when and how your Aadhaar was used.

You can do this easily from anywhere without going to the Aadhaar centre.

What does the report tell you?

Authentication history details every Aadhaar verification request associated with your number. You will see:

1. How was Aadhaar authenticated – was it your fingerprint, iris scan or OTP?
2. The exact date and time each request arrives.
3. Which organisation, bank, cellphone company or government office accessed your details.

If you see a request you don’t remember, you’ll know right away.

Lock your biometrics for greater security

UIDAI does not stop here. You can lock your biometric data – your fingerprints and iris information – so that no one can use them without your OK. It is simple to lock and unlock biometrics using My Aadhaar portal or mAadhaar mobile app.

Once your biometrics are locked, even if someone tries, he cannot use fingerprint or iris authentication for your Aadhaar. Do you need to use it yourself? No problem – you can unlock it for a while, then lock it again immediately afterward.

Did you see anything suspicious?

If you see any Base activity you don’t recognize, do the following immediately:

• Call UIDAI helpline number 1947. Don’t wait!
• Submit written complaint through UIDAI portal right from your mobile or desktop.
• Choose to lock your biometrics to immediately prevent your authenticated number from being misused in any further way.

Keep track of your Aadhaar authentication history. Checking this regularly helps you spot fraud early so you can keep control of your identity and personal data.