Aadhar is Now More Secure as UIDAI Rolls Out New Security System

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has successfully implemented a new security method for Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication and faster spoofing detection.

"The artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML)-based security mechanism developed in-house is currently employing a combination of both finger minutia and finger image to check the liveness of the fingerprint collected. This strengthens and secures Aadhaar authentication transactions," the UIDAI stated in a statement.

To decrease the probability of spoofing attempts, the new two-factor/layer authentication includes additional tests to authenticate the validity (liveness) of the fingerprint.

"The action could be of immense use in areas, including banking and financials, telecom, and government industries. It is also intended to assist the bottom of the pyramid by strengthening the Aadhaar-enabled payment system and discouraging harmful attempts by unscrupulous groups," according to the statement.

The new Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication security system is now fully operational. The implementation and migration came after months of negotiation and hand-holding by UIDAI of its partners and user agencies.

According to the statement, with the new system in place, solely finger image or finger minutiae-based Aadhaar verification has given way to strong two-factor authentication, which is a win-win for all stakeholders.

"A continual interaction and due diligence of UIDAI with authentication user agencies (AUAs) were carried out to impress upon AUAs/ Sub AUAs about the value of the new modalities. AUA is a company that provides Aadhaar-enabled services to Aadhaar number holders through authentication provided by the authentication service agency. Sub AUAs are agencies that employ Aadhaar authentication to allow their services through an existing requesting organisation," the statement added.