UIDAI to Ban Aadhaar Photocopies, Introduce New QR-Based Verification System

By siliconindia | Monday, 08 December 2025, 08:40 Hrs

UIDAI to stop hotels and event organizers from collecting Aadhaar photocopies
New QR-based and app-based digital verification system to replace paper checks
Move aims to boost privacy, reduce data-leak risks, and support new data protection law

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing to introduce a new rule that will prohibit hotels, event organizers, and other service providers from collecting or storing photocopies of Aadhaar cards. Officials said the shift is meant to protect user privacy and phase out practices that violate the Aadhaar Act.

Bhuvnesh Kumar, CEO at UIDAI, confirmed that the authority has approved a new digital verification framework. Under this system, entities that rely on Aadhaar checks will need to formally register and use UIDAI’s updated verification technology. Instead of handing over photocopies, users will be verified through QR code scans or a new Aadhaar mobile app that is currently in development.

Kumar said the new verification setup will streamline checks and cut reliance on paper-based processes. It will also help avoid disruptions caused when intermediary servers fail to route authentication requests to the central Aadhaar database. Registered entities will receive access to an API so they can integrate the new verification tool directly into their software systems.

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UIDAI is also beta-testing a new mobile app that supports app-to-app verification without connecting to the central server for every transaction. This feature is expected to be useful in high-traffic areas such as airports and retail outlets selling age-restricted items.

Kumar added that the updated system will significantly improve privacy safeguards by eliminating the risks tied to storing physical Aadhaar copies. The app will also align with the upcoming Digital Personal Data Protection Act, which will be fully implemented within the next 18 months. Users will be able to upload new address proofs and add family members who do not have mobile phones.