Here’s All You Need To Know About Aadhaar Authentication
When you apply for an Aadhaar card, you are required to provide demographic and biometric details. Aadhaar authentication is the process of verifying the Aadhaar information.
The Central Identities Data Repository is a centralised database. It is involved with verifying biometric, demographic and other associated details provided by Aadhaar cardholders. The following sections include a detailed overview of the Aadhaar authentication procedure.
Latest Update
UIDAI recently announced that people, whose Aadhaar cards were issued more than 10 years ago, can update their demographic details on myAadhaar portal for FREE from 15th March, 2023 to 30th June, 2023.
Why Is Aadhaar Authentication Necessary?
There are numerous private and public entities offering products or services to customers, employees or associates. These entities usually need a simple, convenient, reliable and instant authentication process for their operations.
However, the presence of a series of identification documents often makes it complicated for these agencies to verify and validate each of the documents accurately. But with Aadhaar authentication, the UIDAI has launched reliable method of data verification.
UIDAI stores the information that is collected during Aadhaar enrolment on a centralised database. Aadhaar authentication enables agencies to carry out different verifications online, thus eliminating the need for offline verifications.
Also Read: https://navi.com/blog/change-or-update-aadhaar-card-details/
How Does Aadhaar Authentication Happen?
UIDAI usually offers the Aadhaar authentication services only when requested by an agency or entity. During the authentication process, an agency will have to send an electronic request for authentication to UIDAI.
The concerned authority will match the information of a particular individual submitted against the data available on the CIDR database. If the data matches, then UIDAI responds with a ‘yes’. Otherwise, the response is a ‘no’. However, to protect your privacy, no personal data will be provided.
Moreover, UIDAI will entertain the request for authentication only if it adheres to the laid down regulations and protocols.
Different Methods of Aadhaar Authentication
Through a few simple ways, agencies can easily and promptly carry out an online check of an individual’s details. Here are various modes through which Aadhaar authentication takes place:
OTP-based authentication
A one-time password is a unique code that is valid only for a brief period. You can use it only once for a transaction or for login sessions. Through OTP-based authentication, you can verify and authenticate your identity to avail the Aadhaar-linked services.
You will have to ask for an OTP through the application or platform of a service provider. Thereafter, you need to provide your Aadhaar number along with the OTP to confirm your identity.
Demographic authentication
The basic personal details such as name, address, gender, contact information, date of birth, etc., that you provide during Aadhaar enrolment qualify as demographic information. The demographic details are linked with your Aadhaar number.
During demographic authentication, the demographic details that are connected with your Aadhaar are compared and matched with data stored on CIDR.
Biometric-based authentication
Biometric authentication enables identifying an individual by assessing one or more biological traits. Such traits include voice waves, DNA, fingerprint, iris pattern, retina and others.
During this authentication process, your biometric details are compared and matched with the data stored on CIDR.
Multi-factor authentication
Multi-factor authentication involves a combination of two or more types of authentication methods. Entities can seek a multi-factor authentication process as per their requirements.
Major Benefits of Aadhaar Authentication
Aadhaar verification is a reliable, efficient and highly-convenient alternative to conventional offline verification. It comes with the following advantages:
Validates online transactions or payments
In addition to authenticating for various government-funded subsidies or services, Aadhaar authentication is crucial for allowing online payments. Aadhaar enables verifying financial transactions made through UPI-based mobile apps.
The Indian Government launched the BHIM app that requires Aadhaar authentication to validate payments among customers and merchants.
Identifies beneficiaries
One of the most significant purposes of Aadhaar details authentication is to identify deserving candidates for a particular service. Through this process, concerned service providers can verify and identify customers. This reduces fraudulent activities and thus helps in saving government resources.
Helps in providing better security
Aadhaar authentication is also often used to regulate access to high-security areas, for example, airports. Individuals can enter restricted areas only after identity verification.
For verifying address
Aadhaar and e-Aadhaar act as valid address proof documents. You can use this document while applying for a passport, taking a new mobile connection, gas connection, availing any type of credits or subsidies and more. Aadhaar authentication will help in streamlining your application for any of these services.
Also Read: https://navi.com/blog/guide-to-apply-for-aadhar-card/
Final Word
Interestingly, CIDR is efficient enough to handle lakhs of Aadhaar authentication requests. Given its speed, accuracy and reliability, Aadhaar authentication is indeed one of the most useful ways to verify the information of an individual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: UIDAI will inform you on the registered email address about an authentication. Every time it receives a biometric or OTP-based authentication request against your Aadhaar number, you will receive a notification on the email linked with your Aadhaar.
Ans: If your fingerprint authentication is rejected, you can try to place your finger in a proper position with the correct pressure on the scanner. However, you may also try using another finger or cleaning the scanner. In case it repeatedly fails, make sure to visit an Aadhaar centre.
Ans: If you receive an authentication request that you haven’t requested, you should contact the call centre number or email ID that is present in the UIDAI email. Make sure to provide all necessary authentication details to UIDAI.
Ans: Service providers are aware of the fact that authentication is subject to technological or biometric issues that can impact the processes. Thus, they will have alternative techniques to authenticate and verify beneficiaries of a scheme or service.
Ans: Some service providers might require OTP authentication to verify your identity. You can request the OTP through the platform of your service provider. Provide the OTP once you receive it on your registered number.
Disclaimer
This article is solely for educational purposes. Navi doesn't take any responsibility for the information or claims made in the blog.
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