Aadhaar Verification New Rules: From Photocopies to QR Codes

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has approved a new rule that will require entities like hotels and event organisers to register with the authority if they wish to use Aadhaar to verify the identities of customers, a senior government official said. 

The main aim is to shift such entities away from collecting and storing physical photocopies of Aadhaar, a practice that violates the Aadhaar Act and creates misuse risks.

Objective

The primary objective is to stop misuse arising from Aadhaar photocopies being stored in files that are not secure.

By moving to a registered, tech-based verification framework, UIDAI wants to ensure compliance with the Aadhaar Act and strengthen privacy safeguards.

New Aadhaar verification Framework

UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar told PTI that under the new framework, UIDAI will provide these entities access to a new technology which will allow them to verify individuals by scanning a QR code or by connecting with the new Aadhaar app, which is currently under development.

API for Offline Verification

For entities that still prefer an offline mode, UIDAI will provide them access to an API (application programming interface) through which they can update their system for Aadhaar verification.

App-Based and QR Code Verification

UIDAI is beta-testing a new Aadhaar app to enable app-to-app verification and QR-based checks that will work without connecting to the central Aadhaar database for every request. This is expected to reduce delays caused by server outages and make verification faster and more reliable.

Wider Use For Businesses

This new app and offline tools can be used by multiple sectors including airports, shops selling age-restricted goods and other service providers that depend on Aadhaar-based verification.

UIDAI’s move is aligned with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, which is expected to become fully operational within the next 18 months.

The new system is meant to improve Aadhaar authentication and offline verification in a way that matches the consent, purpose limitation and data minimisation principles under the new law.

User Convenience And Family Features

The upcoming app will provide users to update address proof documents more easily in digital form, reducing paperwork.

UIDAI also plans features for adding other family members on the same app who don't own a mobile phone.