Aadhaar gets new data privacy features, says UIDAI DG Sumnesh Joshi

Mumbai: The Unique Identification Authority of India has introduced new features in Aadhaar for data privacy and security.

Sumnesh Joshi, Deputy Director General of the UIDAI, informed that Aadhaar will now have features such as Biometric Locking/Unlocking, Virtual Aadhaar ID (VID), Face Authentication and Aadhaar QR Code.

“We are thrilled to announce the release of the latest features of Aadhaar. These enhancements are designed to further empower citizens, facilitate seamless access to services, and reinforce the nation’s journey toward a truly Digital India,” Joshi said.

The biometric locking and unlocking feature will allow citizens to lock their biometric data, preventing unauthorised access. This will ensure data privacy and security. The UIDAI has also introduced offline Aadhaar verification so that users do not need internet connectivity to update their information. This feature will enable the users to do real-time authentication even in areas with limited internet access.

In order to further enhance privacy, the users are now allowed to generate 16-digit temporary Virtual Aadhaar ID, so that they do not need to share their actual Aadhaar number for authentication. “VID can be used for various services, reducing the risk of identity theft,” Joshi said.

Face authentication is another feature that has been integrated into the Aadhaar platform. Users can now use their facial biometrics to verify their identity. This feature has been added to provide accessibility for those with fingerprint-related challenges and to make the authentication mechanism more inclusive.

“The new Aadhaar cards also have QR Code which allows users to share their Aadhaar details securely and conveniently. To explore these new features and experience the enhanced Aadhaar ecosystem, visit the official Aadhaar website or update your mAadhaar app on your mobile device,” Mr Joshi said.

UIDAI has also extended the period for updating Aadhaar documents at no cost until September 30. The previous deadline for updating Aadhaar was June 14. UIDAI has advised all Aadhar users to update their supporting documents at least once every 10 years.

Users can also download a mobile app mAadhaar that allows them to carry Aadhaar on their mobile registered with Aadhaar. Currently, the app is available on Android. The app stores and displays demographic data that is available on Aadhaar card including name, date of birth, gender, address and photograph. By downloading this app on his registered mobile, a user need not carry a physical copy of his Aadhaar card. They can now generate time-based OTPs (TOTPs) via the mAadhaar mobile app, providing an additional layer of security during authentication.

“Aadhaar has already played a crucial role in transforming how we authenticate identities, avail government benefits, and engage with various services. With the addition of these new features, the Aadhaar platform is set to revolutionize the way individuals interact with the digital ecosystem,” Joshi said.