Aadhaar photocopies will soon be banned, UIDAI moves to QR-Based verification

For years, handing over a photocopy of your Aadhaar card has been the standard routine everywhere. Hotels ask for it, telecom stores ask for it, even event organisers sometimes insist on it. It feels normal by now, almost like showing a movie ticket. But that familiar ritual is about to disappear. According to a PTI report, UIDAI is preparing a new rule that will put an end to collecting and storing physical Aadhaar photocopies, and this shift could change how everyday identity checks work across the country.

The reason behind this move is simple: security. Aadhaar numbers are sensitive, and millions of photocopies floating around in filing cabinets, hotel drawers and office storerooms create a huge privacy risk. By banning the storage of paper copies, UIDAI wants to make sure your personal details do not end up in the wrong hands. Instead of paper, verification will soon rely on digital tools that are far safer and quicker.

The new system revolves around the QR code printed on every Aadhaar card. That tiny square carries encrypted basic information, which can be scanned to confirm a person’s identity without revealing their full Aadhaar details. It is fast, clean and cannot be misused the way a photocopy can. UIDAI is also building an app that lets businesses verify Aadhaar offline, without even connecting to the central database. So a hotel check-in could be as simple as a quick scan on a phone.

But there is one important change for service providers. Anyone who wants to verify Aadhaar will now have to register with UIDAI. This includes hotels, telecom companies, event organisers and others who regularly rely on Aadhaar for identity proof. Once registered, they will get access to the new verification tools, ensuring a standard and secure system for everyone.