UIDAI Makes Aadhaar Registration Mandatory for Hotels, Event Organisers and Other Entities to Prevent Misuse

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced a new rule requiring entities such as hotels, event organizers, and other service providers to register with UIDAI if they want to use Aadhaar for identity verification. The move comes as part of the effort to stop the misuse of Aadhaar data. There’s a practice of storing photocopies of Aadhar cards, leading to the compromise of user data and violating the Aadhar Act. Nevertheless, to prevent this, UIDAI has introduced a new rule wherein all the entities that ask for your Aadhar card will have to first register with UIDAI.

How the New Aadhaar Verification System Will Work

UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar spoke to PTI and said that the Aadhar system will be updated and it will allow entities to verify Aadhar holders using a QR code scan. In addition, it can also be done via the new Aadhar app that’s currently under beta testing.

This new approach will replace the traditional paper-based verification methods along with minimizing risks associated with the physical storage of sensitive data. Not only this, UIDAI will be providing an API integration to entities that prefer online verifications. By doing this, UIDAI will create a seamless Aadhar authentication.

Benefits of the New Rule

The new system will facilitate the Aadhaar verification in a streamlined manner, whilst safeguarding the privacy of the users. It also prevents the possibility of data leak and misuse by doing away with the use of photocopies. The organizations will also enjoy quicker and more dependable verification because the application and API are set to operate authentication even when the server is offline. This provides a smoother processing of services where the identity is supposed to be confirmed.

Wider Applications of the Aadhaar App

Hotels and event organizers will not be the only ones who will be able to use the new Aadhaar app. It will also be available to Airports, retail shops, and other service providers that require Aadhaar verification. The application will also enable users to update address evidence, add family members who do not use mobile phones and undertake other functions relating to identity. This will be more convenient without compromising on the future Digital Personal Data Protection Act.