Don't Share Photocopies Of Aadhaar; Unlicensed Entities Like Hotels Can't Keep Aadhaar Cards : UIDAI

UPDATE : UIDAI has withdrawn this press release on May 29.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has warned the general public not to share photocopy of one's Aadhaar with any organizations because it can be misused. Alternatively, a masked Aadhaar which displays only the last 4 digits of your Aadhaar number can be used for the purpose. It can be downloaded from UIDAI official website https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in. Select the option "Do you want a masked Aadhaar" and proceed to download.

The existence of any Aadhaar number can be verified at https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/verifyAadhaar. To verify offline, you can scan the QR code on e-Aadhaar or Aadhaar letter or Aadhaar PVC card using QR code scanner in the mAadhaar mobile application.

UIDAI has also asked the public to avoid using a public computer at an internet café/kiosk to download e-Aadhaar. However if one does so, it should be ensured that all the downloaded copies of e-Aadhaar permanently deleted from that computer.

Only those organizations that have obtained a User License from the UIDAI can use Aadhaar for establishing the identity of a person. Unlicensed private entities like hotels or film halls are not permitted to collect or keep copies of Aadhaar card. It is an offence under the Aadhaar Act 2016. If a private entity demands to see your Aadhaar card, or seeks a photocopy of your Aadhaar card, please verify that they have valid User License from the UIDAI.

Source : PIB Press Release

UPDATE : UIDAI Withdraws Press Release Which Cautioned Against Sharing Photocopies Of Aadhaar

The Unique Identification Authority of India has withdrawn its press release dated May 27 which had cautioned against sharing of photocopies of Aadhaar cards and had advised card holders only to share the masked Aadhaar with only the last 4 digits.