Aadhaar fraud cases: How to protect yourself

Citizens, beware! A concerning rise in Aadhaar fraud cases is taking place, where individuals are falling victim to scams simply by revealing their Aadhaar details, including the UIDAI number and fingerprints.

In a recent fraud incident in Kolkata, a resident faced a severe breach as their biometric data, encompassing fingerprints and eye scans, was stolen to authenticate significant transactions. In response, the city commissioner issued a warning to citizens, emphasising the urgent need for precautionary measures.

The primary recommendation from law enforcement is to install the mAadhar application, which securely locks the user's biometric data. However, acknowledging existing loopholes within the system, authorities admit that cybercriminals are exploiting vulnerabilities, leading to fraudulent activities. Recent reports highlight potential data theft and illegal transactions within the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS).


Law enforcement strongly advises citizens to use biometric authentication for transactions and to avoid sharing unmasked Aadhaar details, including any biometric data, with unauthorised individuals. Numerous complaints have emerged from West Bengal, with fraudsters stealing data, including thumbprints, from land registries, targeting individuals involved in recent land deals or property transactions.

Experts note that in a country like India, where technical awareness may be limited, it is challenging for authorities to convey the importance of securing biometric data. Consequently, the AEPS system remains vulnerable, with fingerprints within the app not adequately masked, making data theft relatively easy.

In a reported case, a citizen named Deepak lost over Rs 100,000 without receiving any alerts. His phone, secured by biometric data, was compromised, revealing personal information and OTPs used for substantial transactions. Another case on June 15 shocked the nation, where a citizen lost Rs 10,000 through an AEPS transaction slip.


On September 6, a Kolkata resident received an alarming SMS indicating a Rs 10,000 withdrawal from their bank account using biometric data. Despite freezing their bank account, further messages confirmed successful Aadhaar authentication for other accounts. Attempts to freeze accounts were hindered by ongoing EMI payments.

Despite engaging with cyber police and securing biometric information, the victim suspects that fraudsters may have obtained information from property sites, highlighting the challenges in resolving such cases.

To protect yourself from Aadhaar fraud cases, consider taking the following preventive steps:
1. Install and Secure mAadhar app as it will enable all security features provided by the application. One should also lock his/her biometric data within the app to prevent unauthorized access.

2. Regularly monitor Aadhaar transactions: Regularly checking your bank statements and transaction history linked to your Aadhaar will help in receiving immediate notifications for any unusual activity.

3. Use Biometric authentication for transactions: Whenever possible, opt for biometric authentication when conducting Aadhaar-enabled transactions. Avoid conducting significant transactions without biometric verification.

4. Secure your mobile device: Use strong passwords, PINs, or biometric locks to secure your mobile device. Install reliable security software and keep it up-to-date.

5. Be cautious with Aadhaar details: Avoid sharing your Aadhaar details, especially the UIDAI number and biometric data, with anyone unauthorized. One should remain cautious when providing Aadhaar details for KYC purposes and ensure the legitimacy of the request.

6. Get educated about scams: Stay informed about common Aadhaar-related scams and fraud tactics. Be wary of unsolicited calls or messages asking for Aadhaar details and report any suspicious activity.



7. Update Aadhaar details promptly: Keep your Aadhaar details, including your mobile number and email address, updated with the UIDAI. Promptly report any changes or discrepancies in your Aadhaar information.

8. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Wherever possible, enable two-factor authentication for your online accounts linked to Aadhaar. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a secondary authentication step.

9. Secure your devices: Ensure that your devices, including computers and mobile devices, are protected with up-to-date security measures. Avoid using public computers or devices for sensitive Aadhaar-related activities.

10. Report suspicious activity: If you notice any unauthorized transactions or suspect Aadhaar-related fraud, report it immediately to the concerned authorities and your bank. Complain with the local police or cybercrime cell.