Aadhaar cards are everywhere these days. From opening a bank account to getting a SIM card, this 12-digit number is your key to many services in India. But with so many people using Aadhaar, it’s important to make sure the card you’re looking at is genuine. Checking an Aadhaar card’s authenticity is simple and can save you from identity fraud and trouble later. Here’s a step-by-step guide, written in easy language, to help you verify an Aadhaar card quickly.
Why Should You Verify an Aadhaar Card?
Aadhaar is used as proof of identity for many important things. If someone uses a fake Aadhaar card, it can lead to big problems like fraud or theft. Verifying Aadhaar helps you:
- Make sure the person is who they say they are
- Prevent misuse of your or someone else’s identity
- Access government schemes and services safely
- Stay protected from scams
Method 1: Scan the QR Code on the Aadhaar Card
Every Aadhaar card has a small black-and-white square called a QR code. This code stores important details like the person’s name, date of birth, photo, and more. You can scan this QR code using your smartphone to check if the card is real.
Here’s how to do it:
- Download an app like mAadhaar or any Aadhaar QR Scanner from the app store.
- Open the app and select the option to scan a QR code.
- Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on the Aadhaar card.
- The app will show the person’s details instantly-like their name, date of birth, gender, and photo.
- Compare the details on your phone with what’s printed on the Aadhaar card.
If everything matches, the card is genuine. This method is quick and doesn’t need an internet connection, so you can use it even if you’re offline.
Method 2: Verify Aadhaar Online Using the UIDAI Website
If you want to check an Aadhaar card online, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) website is the safest place to do it. Here’s how:
- Go to the official UIDAI website.
- Click on the ‘My Aadhaar’ section.
- Find and select ‘Verify Aadhaar Number’ or ‘Verify an Aadhaar Number’ under Aadhaar Services.
- Enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number you want to verify.
- Enter the security code (captcha) shown on the screen.
- Click on ‘Verify’ or ‘Proceed to Verify’.
The website will tell you if the Aadhaar number is valid and active. It will also show some basic details, so you can cross-check with the card in hand. If the number is not valid, the website will say so.
Method 3: Use the Latest Aadhaar App
A new Aadhaar app has been launched to make things even easier. This app lets you verify Aadhaar using Face ID and QR scanning. You don’t need to carry your physical Aadhaar card anymore-just use the app for digital verification. The app is designed to be secure and user-friendly, making Aadhaar checks as easy as making a UPI payment.
What Details Can You Check?
When you verify an Aadhaar card, you can check these details:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Photograph
- Whether the Aadhaar number is active or not
If any of these details don’t match or seem wrong, it’s best to double-check with the person or contact UIDAI for help.
Important Tips for Aadhaar Verification
- Always use official apps or the UIDAI website for verification.
- Never share your Aadhaar number, OTP, or other details with strangers.
- Make sure your mobile number is linked to your Aadhaar for easy updates and alerts.
- If you find any mistakes in your Aadhaar card, update them as soon as possible.
- Use a secure internet connection when verifying Aadhaar online.
