To strengthen Aadhaar security, UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) is preparing to introduce a major change. Hotels, lodges, OYO rooms, guest houses, and event management companies will no longer be allowed to take or store photocopies of Aadhaar cards. This step aims to prevent data leaks, misuse, and illegal storage of Aadhaar information.
The rule will be implemented soon, and the identity verification system will undergo a complete transformation.
What Is the New Rule?
UIDAI has indicated that the paper-based Aadhaar verification system used across the country will be discontinued. Instead, only digital and secure authentication methods will be permitted.
This means:
- Hotels, OYO rooms, lodges, PGs, and guest houses will not be allowed to keep Aadhaar photocopies
- Event companies cannot collect Aadhaar copies during registration
- No company will be permitted to store a customer’s Aadhaar number
UIDAI states that keeping Aadhaar photocopies is highly unsafe and can lead to data theft and misuse — which is why the new rule prioritizes security.
How Will Identity Verification Be Done Now?
UIDAI plans to allow verification only through the following secure methods:
1. Online Aadhaar Verification
Identity will be authenticated by scanning the QR code or using UIDAI’s online verification system.
2. Official Secure QR Code Scan
The secure QR code printed on the Aadhaar card will be scanned to fetch:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Photograph
- Aadhaar verification status
All in a fully secure way.
3. OTP-Based Verification
For hotel check-ins, rental agreements, or event entry, identity can also be verified through mobile OTP authentication.
Why Was This Change Necessary?
According to UIDAI, collecting photocopies of Aadhaar cards is the least secure practice.
It can lead to:
- Misuse of Aadhaar numbers
- Identity theft
- Bank or SIM card fraud
- Leakage of personal information
To eliminate these risks, the verification system will now be fully digital, secure, and traceable, reducing misuse to almost zero.
How Will Hotels and Event Companies Be Affected?
Once the new rule is implemented:
- OYO, hotels, lodges, and event companies will have to upgrade their verification systems
- Staff will need training in QR-based authentication
- Storing Aadhaar data may result in strict action
UIDAI will soon release an official circular for implementation.
Benefits for Customers
- Your identity becomes more secure
- No one will be able to store your Aadhaar number
- Reduced chances of data leaks and fraud
- Faster and seamless digital check-in at hotels and events
Final Note
This major step by UIDAI will play a crucial role in strengthening digital security in India. The practice of handing over photocopies of Aadhaar cards will finally end, and identity verification will become safer, faster, and completely digital.
