After introducing its redesigned Aadhaar app, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is reportedly planning a major overhaul of the physical Aadhaar card to curb misuse.
As per reports, the revised card would show only the holder’s photograph and a QR code, removing other personal details from visible print.
UIDAI Plans Aadhaar Card Redesign with QR Code to Prevent Misuse
This step is intended to stop the improper use of Aadhaar photocopies, which currently display sensitive personal information.
Work on implementing this significant modification has allegedly been in progress since last year.
UIDAI has officially released the complete version of its upgraded Aadhaar mobile application, offering expanded digital services.
Through the new app, users can now update information such as their mobile number, residential address, and other details without needing to visit an Aadhaar enrolment or update center.
The app also allows individuals to lock or unlock their Aadhaar-linked biometric data instantly with a single tap.
UIDAI Chief Bhuvnesh Kumar Announces New Rules to Prevent Aadhaar Photocopy Misuse
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar stated during an online conference that fresh guidelines are being formulated to prevent the misuse of Aadhaar cards via photocopies.
Aadhaar has become a critical identity document for residents across India.
It is commonly required for activities such as opening bank accounts, obtaining SIM cards, and accessing various government welfare schemes.
At present, individuals often provide photocopies of their Aadhaar card for these services.
These copies typically reveal key personal details, including the Aadhaar number, full name, residential address, date of birth, and other identifying information, creating the possibility of misuse.
To tackle this risk, authorities are considering limiting the physical card’s visible information to just the photograph and a QR code.
Under this model, the Aadhaar card would continue to function as a valid photo ID while safeguarding confidential personal data.
With the proposed system, scanning the QR code would allow institutions such as banks, telecom providers, and government agencies to verify identity securely.
The QR-based approach is expected to improve privacy protection and minimize the chances of identity misuse.
News about this potential regulatory change first emerged in December of last year, although the proposal has not yet been formally put into effect.
The updated Aadhaar app already reflects this privacy-focused approach, showing only the cardholder’s photograph and QR code once logged in, while concealing other personal information.
Additional personal details remain inaccessible unless the user securely logs into the application, ensuring that sensitive data is not openly displayed.
