Exercise Caution When Using Identity Documents Such as Aadhaar, PAN, Passport etc

The Indian government has warned citizens to exercise extreme caution when using identification documents such as Aadhar cards, passports, and PAN cards. To reap the benefits and services, it is recommended that Aadhaar and other identity documents, such as a bank account, PAN, or passport, be used with confidence.
The same level of caution should be exercised when sharing Aadhaar with any trusted entity as when sharing mobile number, bank account number, or any other identity document such as Passport, Voter Id, PAN, ration card, etc according to a UIDAI statement.
It also stated that Aadhaar is a digital ID for residents and a single source of online and offline identity verification for residents throughout the country. Residents can use their Aadhaar number to verify and validate their identity credentials electronically or manually.

• According to the press release, if a resident does not want to share his or her Aadhaar number, UIDAI offers the option of creating Virtual Identifiers (VID). VID can be easily generated by visiting the official website or using the myaadhaar portal, and it can be used instead of the Aadhaar number for authentication.
• UIDAI also provides Aadhaar and biometric locking services. If a resident is not likely to use Aadhaar for an extended period of time, Aadhaar or biometrics can be disabled. When necessary, the same can be quickly and easily unlocked.

• The UIDAI offers a technologically advanced ecosystem to ensure Aadhaar number holders have a safe, smooth, and quick authentication experience. According to the Aadhaar Act and its Regulations, entities that obtain Aadhaar numbers from residents must use and store them in a secure and legally permissible manner.
• Entities seeking Aadhaar must obtain consent, which must specify the reason for the request. Residents should insist on it, according to the UIDAI.
• By visiting the UIDAI website or using the m-Aadhaar app, residents can view their Aadhaar authentication history for the last six months. UIDAI also sends email notifications for each authentication. As a result of linking an email address to an Aadhaar number, a resident is notified whenever his or her Aadhaar number is authenticated.
• With OTP-based Aadhaar authentication, you can access a variety of services, and keeping your mobile number up to date with Aadhaar is a wise decision.
• The UIDAI also recommends that residents not leave their Aadhaar letter / PVC Card, or a copy of it, unattended. Residents should avoid disclosing their Aadhaar numbers in public, particularly on social media and other public platforms. Aadhaar holders must not reveal their Aadhaar OTP to any unauthorised entity or share their m-Aadhaar PIN with anyone.