In response to an increase in incidents of adhaar impersonation, the UIDAI published a list of dos and don’ts regarding the ID last week in a circular.
“Protection of the individual, and the safekeeping of their information is intrinsic in the design of the UID initiative,” the UIDAI website states. The UID project preserves the resident’s interest at the centre of its purpose and aims by using features like a random number that doesn’t reveal any personal information about the person and the others stated below.
Dos and Don’ts” are described below that citizens may observe while providing their Aadhaar numbers,”
Dos of using Aadhaar-
• While sharing Aadhaar number, take the same level of precaution as you take in sharing your mobile number, bank account number, passport, voter ID, UAN, ration card etc.
• If you don’t want to share your Aadhaar number, the UIDAI provides a facility for generating Virtual Identifier (VID). You can easily generate VID and use it for authentication in place of your Aadhaar number. This VID can be changed after the end of calendar day.
• One can check Aadhaar authentication history for last six months on UIDAI website or m-Aadhaar app. Do check the same periodically.
• UIDAI intimates about authentication over e-mail. Therefore, linking your updated email Id with your Aadhaar number will ensure that you get intimation every time your Aadhaar number is authenticated.
• UIDAI has given facility for Aadhaar locking as well as biometric locking. If you are not likely to use Aadhaar for a period of time, you may lock your Aadhaar or biometrics for such time. ‘the same can be unlocked conveniently and instantly, as and when required.
• In case you suspect any unauthorized use of your Aadhaar or have any other Aadhaar related query, do contact UIDAI on toll-free helpline 1947 which is available 24*7 and/ or email at help@uidai.gov.in.
Don’ts:
• Never leave your Aadhaar letter/PVC Card, or its copy thereof, unattended.
• Avoid sharing Aadhaar openly in public domain particularly on social media (‘Twitter, Facebook, Instagram etc.) and other public platforms.
• Never disclose your Aadhaar OTP to any unauthorized entity.
• Don’t share your m-Aadhaar with with anyone.
