Aadhaar Help & Legal Guide

The official UIDAI helpline number is 1947 (toll-free from Indian mobile numbers). This helpline is available 24x7 in Hindi and English languages. For landline users, the number is 1800-300-1947. You can call for assistance regarding enrollment, updates, downloads, authentication issues, and general queries. The helpline also provides information about enrollment centers, status checks, and grievance redressal. Always verify you're calling the official number to avoid scams.

Yes, Aadhaar data is protected with multiple layers of security. Biometric data is stored in encrypted form and never shared during authentication. The system only returns a 'Yes/No' response. UIDAI follows ISO 27001 security standards. Data centers have biometric access control. Regular security audits are conducted. You can lock/unlock your Aadhaar biometrics for additional security. Data sharing is regulated by the Aadhaar Act 2016 and requires consent. Supreme Court has upheld these security measures.

Your legal rights regarding Aadhaar include: 1) Right to obtain Aadhaar (if eligible), 2) Right to update/correct information, 3) Right to opt-out (except for certain government services), 4) Right to privacy and data protection, 5) Right to know how your data is used, 6) Right to file grievances, 7) Right to lock/unlock biometrics, 8) Right to obtain information about authentication history. These rights are protected under the Aadhaar Act 2016 and Supreme Court judgments.

Private companies cannot store your Aadhaar biometric data. They can only store your Aadhaar number with your consent for KYC purposes, and even that is regulated. According to Supreme Court judgment, private companies require specific authorization to use Aadhaar authentication. Banks and telecom companies can use Aadhaar for KYC under certain regulations. Companies cannot collect or store biometric data. Always check privacy policies and only share Aadhaar when absolutely necessary and with authorized entities.

To file a complaint about Aadhaar misuse: 1) Immediately lock your Aadhaar biometrics through UIDAI website or mAadhaar app, 2) File online complaint at https://resident.uidai.gov.in/web/guest/file-complaint, 3) Call helpline 1947, 4) Email at help@uidai.gov.in, 5) Visit nearest UIDAI regional office, 6) File police complaint if identity theft is suspected. Provide details: Your Aadhaar number, incident details, supporting documents. UIDAI has a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism for such cases.