QR Code Introduced for Offline Aadhaar Verification

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced an extra layer of privacy to Aadhaar with an updated QR Code facility. It can hold non-sensitive details like name, photo, address and date of birth. This can be used for offline user verification without the 12-digit ID number.

A QR code is a form of barcode label which contains machine-readable information.

Aadhaar has now being increasingly used as an accepted ID for almost all activities. With the new QR code option which comes with photo, Aadhaar can now be used in the offline mode too without tempering user data. It will be especially handy for verification requirements of non-governmental organisations.

You can download your Aadhaar with the QR code using UIDAI's mobile app mAadhaar or get a printout from the official website uidai.gov.in.
If you are using the printout option, you can blacken your Aadhaar number using a pen and provide it as a proof, as the QR code will hold your information and you not need to reveal it.

For example, if an online shopping portal's delivery man asks for your ID, you can provide this QR code ID that he can use for verification if needed. The ID also has your name and photo to act as enough proof.

The basic purpose of the new offline feature is to establish the identity without revealing Aadhaar number.