Aadhaar Fraud Alert: How to Safely Delink Your Aadhaar from Apps and Wallets

With Aadhaar-related frauds on the rise, it’s more important than ever to protect your 12-digit UID from unnecessary app linkages—especially with digital wallets. Many apps and services still store Aadhaar data, increasing the risk of misuse. Fortunately, UIDAI provides clear options to delink Aadhaar from mobile numbers, digital wallets, and platforms.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure your Aadhaar and avoid becoming a victim of digital fraud.

🔐 Step 1: Check Where Your Aadhaar is Linked

• Visit the official UIDAI website.

• Navigate to the Aadhaar Authentication History section.

• Log in using your Aadhaar number and OTP.

• Review the list of services where your Aadhaar was used.

• If you spot any unknown services or suspicious entries, make a note to delink them immediately.

📱 Step 2: Delink Aadhaar from Mobile Operators

• As per TRAI regulations, Aadhaar is no longer mandatory for mobile KYC.

• Visit your telecom provider’s nearby store with a PAN card or Voter ID.

• Request the removal of Aadhaar from your mobile records.

• The telecom provider is legally bound to process this request.

💳 Step 3: Remove Aadhaar from Fintech Apps (Paytm, PhonePe, etc.)

• Following the 2018 Supreme Court ruling, Aadhaar is not mandatory for wallet KYC.

• Open the app (like Paytm, PhonePe, etc.).

• Go to the KYC or Personal Info section.

• Check if there’s an option to delete or update your Aadhaar info.

• If not, contact customer support via email or in-app chat with a formal delinking request.

📄 Step 4: Use Alternate ID Proofs Instead

• Once Aadhaar is removed, apps may ask for optional IDs like:

  • Driving License

  • Passport

  • PAN Card

• Some platforms might also require video verification or live selfie checks—this is a standard security step and easy to complete.

🛡️ Step 5: Use Masked Aadhaar or VID Instead

• Instead of sharing your full 12-digit Aadhaar, choose safer alternatives:

  • Masked Aadhaar: Only the last 4 digits are visible.

  • VID (Virtual ID): A 16-digit temporary code generated via UIDAI.

• Both options are legally accepted for KYC and offer enhanced privacy.

⚠️ Why It Matters

Scammers are increasingly targeting users by tricking them into linking Aadhaar to fake apps or using stored data to commit identity theft. Digital wallets are especially vulnerable, as they’re widely used and often hold sensitive personal and financial information.

📝 Final Takeaway

Protecting your Aadhaar is your responsibility. With UIDAI now allowing you to reclaim control over where your Aadhaar is stored and used, it’s the right time to:

• Audit your linkages,

• Delink from risky platforms,

• Use alternate IDs or masked Aadhaar when needed.

In a digital-first world, being proactive with your privacy can protect you from serious fraud. Don’t wait—secure your Aadhaar today.