How to Check Aadhaar Misuse: Protect Your Identity with UIDAI’s Authentication History Tool
Why Aadhaar Monitoring is Essential
Aadhaar, India’s 12-digit unique identity number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has become indispensable for accessing government services, banking, travel, school admissions, and more. However, the same convenience has made Aadhaar a target for identity fraud and unauthorized use.
Criminals have been known to exploit stolen Aadhaar data for financial fraud, telecom misuse, and unauthorized access to services. Many individuals remain unaware when their Aadhaar has been misused. Monitoring your Aadhaar usage regularly is the first line of defense in protecting your identity and preventing fraud.
Use the UIDAI Authentication History Feature
The UIDAI offers a built-in security feature known as ‘Authentication History’, which allows users to track when and where their Aadhaar has been used. This helps in identifying unauthorized or suspicious activity.
Here’s how to access this feature:
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Visit the official My Aadhaar portal: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
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Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and complete the CAPTCHA code.
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Click “Login with OTP” and enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
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Once logged in, select “Authentication History.”
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Choose the date range for which you want to view Aadhaar usage details.
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Review the list of authentication attempts. If you notice any unfamiliar or unauthorized entries, they can be reported immediately.
This data includes information like the mode of authentication (biometric, OTP, demographic), date, time, and requesting agency, giving full transparency to the user.
What to Do If You Suspect Aadhaar Misuse
If you detect any suspicious activity or unauthorized Aadhaar usage, take the following steps:
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Call UIDAI’s toll-free helpline: 1947
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Email UIDAI at: help@uidai.gov.in
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Lock your Aadhaar biometrics: This prevents others from using your fingerprint or iris data without your knowledge. You can lock/unlock biometric data directly from the UIDAI portal.
Timely reporting and action can prevent further misuse and secure your personal identity. UIDAI also advises users to avoid sharing Aadhaar numbers unnecessarily and to use masked Aadhaar copies when required.
Conclusion
In an age where digital security is as important as physical safety, monitoring your Aadhaar card’s activity is not just smart—it’s necessary. By regularly checking the Authentication History on UIDAI’s portal, Indian citizens can stay one step ahead of identity fraud and ensure their personal data is used only with their consent.
