New Delhi, Nov 19, 2025 — The Unique Identification Authority of india (UIDAI) has announced a major policy update aimed at preventing the misuse of Aadhaar card photocopies. CEO Bhawnesh Kumar stated that the step is part of a broader initiative to strengthen data security, identity verification, and citizen protection.

Key Highlights of the New Rule

1. Photocopies Will No Longer Be Valid for Verification in Certain Cases

o To curb fraudulent use, photocopies of Aadhaar cards will not be accepted for financial, governmental, or commercial transactions in specified high-risk scenarios.

o Individuals will be required to use digital Aadhaar (via mAadhaar app), eKYC, or QR code verification for authentication.

2. Introduction of QR Code Verification

o Aadhaar cards now come with a secure QR code, which can be scanned to instantly validate the cardholder’s details.

o This makes it harder for fake or tampered photocopies to be used in identity-related processes.

3. Encouragement of wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Aadhaar

o Citizens are encouraged to download and use wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Aadhaar instead of submitting physical copies.

o wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Aadhaar is encrypted, tamper-proof, and easily verifiable, offering an extra layer of security for sensitive transactions.

4. Impact on Public and Private Services

o Banks, telecom operators, and government offices will now need to adhere strictly to eKYC and wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Aadhaar verification.

o Manual photocopies will only be accepted in exceptional cases, with additional verification steps.

UIDAI’s Rationale

CEO Bhawnesh Kumar explained:

“We have observed misuse of Aadhaar photocopies for fraudulent purposes, including identity theft and fake transactions. This rule is a proactive step to protect citizens and make identity verification safer and more reliable.”

The uidai highlighted that millions of Aadhaar-based verifications occur daily, and implementing digital-first verification methods will significantly reduce risks of forgery and impersonation.

How Citizens Can Comply

1. Download mAadhaar App: Available for Android and iOS, providing a secure wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital copy of Aadhaar.

2. Use QR Code Scanning: Scan the card at authorized verification centers to authenticate instantly.

3. Avoid Sharing Physical Copies: Only provide wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Aadhaar or eKYC when required by banks, telecoms, or government agencies.

4. Stay Updated: uidai will periodically release guidelines for new verification technologies and best practices.

Significance of the Update

· Prevents Identity Fraud: Reduces cases of impersonation using fake photocopies.

· Streamlines Verification: wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital and QR code-based verification is faster, more accurate, and convenient.

· Encourages wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Adoption: Supports India’s push toward paperless governance and secure wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital identity systems.

· Protects Citizen Data: Minimizes the risk of sensitive Aadhaar information falling into the wrong hands.

This move by uidai marks a significant step in modernizing India’s identity verification system, balancing security, convenience, and citizen protection.

 

Disclaimer:

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