Aadhaar is used for a wide range of government and financial services in India, so keeping the information associated with it accurate is important. Many people, however, are unsure which Aadhaar services can be completed online and when they need to visit an Aadhaar centre.
Here are some useful things Aadhaar holders should check.
1. Check Your Aadhaar Information
Before applying for any change, review the information associated with your Aadhaar and identify whether anything needs correction.
Details such as your address or other demographic information may need to be updated when your circumstances change.
2. Update Your Address Online
Eligible Aadhaar holders can use UIDAI's online services for certain address-related updates.
The process requires authentication and supporting documentation as specified by UIDAI.
Before submitting a request, make sure the document you provide meets the current requirements.
3. Check Your Aadhaar Authentication History
UIDAI provides an authentication-history facility that allows users to review certain Aadhaar authentication activity.
This can be useful if you want to check whether your Aadhaar has recently been used for authentication.
If you notice something you do not recognise, investigate it promptly through the appropriate official channel.
4. Lock Aadhaar Biometrics
UIDAI provides a facility through which Aadhaar holders can lock their biometrics.
When biometric authentication is not required, keeping biometric data locked can provide an additional layer of protection.
Users can unlock it temporarily when necessary, subject to the applicable process.
5. Check Which Mobile Number Is Registered
A registered mobile number is important for receiving OTPs and accessing several Aadhaar-related online services.
If you have changed your mobile number, check whether your Aadhaar record needs to be updated.
For certain mobile-number updates, visiting an Aadhaar enrolment or update centre may be required.
6. Download Your Aadhaar Securely
If you need a digital copy of your Aadhaar, use UIDAI's official services rather than downloading it from an unknown website.
The downloaded electronic Aadhaar is digitally authenticated and can be used where accepted.
Keep the file secure and avoid sending Aadhaar documents unnecessarily through public or unknown channels.
7. Be Careful About Aadhaar Scams
Aadhaar-related fraud often begins with a convincing phone call, SMS or WhatsApp message.
Someone may claim that your Aadhaar will be blocked unless you complete an urgent verification process.
Do not share your OTP, Aadhaar-related authentication details, banking PIN or passwords with unknown individuals.
Never install a remote-access application because someone claiming to be UIDAI support asks you to do so.
Do You Need to Visit an Aadhaar Centre?
Not every Aadhaar service can be completed online.
Certain updates or biometric-related services may require an in-person visit to an authorised Aadhaar centre.
Before travelling, check UIDAI's current instructions to determine whether your particular request can be completed online.
Use Only Official UIDAI Services
Aadhaar is sensitive identity information, so users should avoid unofficial websites offering "instant" updates or verification services.
Always verify that you are using the official UIDAI platform and carefully review the information before submitting a request.
Final Takeaway
Aadhaar holders should periodically review their details and security settings rather than waiting until an important government or financial service requires Aadhaar authentication.
