Aadhaar card update: UIDAI has launched the Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC), making a major change to Aadhaar verification rules. Now, the full Aadhaar number will no longer need to be shared during offline verification. A new app, face verification, and OVSE registration system will further strengthen security. Learn more.
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Aadhaar card update: UIDAI has amended Aadhaar-related rules and introduced Aadhaar Verifiable Credential (AVC). This is a new digital ID option. Its purpose is to make offline identity verification more secure and reduce unnecessary data sharing.
These changes were notified on December 9 and released on the UIDAI website on Friday. Rules for entities that perform Aadhaar verification without real-time UIDAI server access have also been updated.
What is AVC and why was it introduced?
The AVC is a digitally signed document that can contain limited information, such as the last four digits of the Aadhaar number, name, address, date of birth, gender, and photo. Importantly, the Aadhaar holder can decide which information they want to share during verification.
UIDAI’s new Aadhaar app will give users the option to choose which information to share with the verification agency. This aims to enable secure identity verification while keeping the Aadhaar number hidden.
Offline Face Verification Also Added
The new changes also include a new feature called offline face verification. This allows the verification agency to match a live facial photo with the photo in the Aadhaar app. This will not require an internet connection.
UIDAI has also added a new definition for the term “Aadhaar Application.” This will include all UIDAI apps and portals. The explicit reference to mAadhaar in the previous rules has now been removed, as the new app will enable easier digital use of Aadhaar.
Moving from Physical to Digital Aadhaar
Through these changes, UIDAI aims to reduce the reliance on physical Aadhaar cards and their photocopies. UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar has already stated that physical copies always pose a risk of misuse. Therefore, this shift towards digital-first identity is necessary.
New Registration System Implemented for OVSE
UIDAI has, for the first time, introduced a formal registration process for entities that wish to perform identity verification using Aadhaar Verifiable Credential or Aadhaar Paperless Offline e-KYC. The new Rule 13A states that any entity wishing to perform offline verification must register with UIDAI.
UIDAI has also been given the authority to examine the application, ask for additional information, approve or reject the registration, and set registration or transaction fees. If UIDAI rejects the application, it must provide reasons within 15 days, and the entity can apply for reconsideration within 30 days.
Strict action against violations
UIDAI will now be able to take action against entities that create situations of negligence, misuse, or non-compliance with instructions during offline Aadhaar verification.
If an entity fails to follow required procedures or standards, uses verification for improper purposes, conceals information, or fails to cooperate with audits, UIDAI can impose fines, cancel its registration, or suspend its verification permission.
