Stop Aadhaar Scams: How to Safely Delink It from Your Mobile Number and Wallet Apps

Aadhaar is one of the most important identity tools in India. It helps you access many government and private services quickly. But when linked to too many apps or services, it also becomes a target for scammers. If you've ever connected your Aadhaar to a mobile number, wallet app, or fintech service that you no longer use — it's time to delink it. This small step can go a long way in protecting your identity and preventing fraud.

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Why You Should Care
 Scammers often use leaked or misused Aadhaar details to:

• Create fake accounts
• Commit financial fraud
• Spoof your identity in criminal activities

The more places your Aadhaar is linked, the more doors hackers can try to break through. So let’s lock those unused doors.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Delink Aadhaar Safely

Step 1: Check Aadhaar Usage Log

• Visit the UIDAI official website.
• Login using your Aadhaar and OTP.
• Go to “Aadhaar Authentication History.”
• This will show all services and apps that used your Aadhaar recently.

Action: Identify services you don’t recognize or use anymore. Mark them for delinking.

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Step 2: Ask Your Mobile Provider to Delink Aadhaar
 Aadhaar is no longer required for mobile number KYC.

• Visit your SIM provider’s nearest store.
• Carry a valid ID (like PAN card, passport, or voter ID).
• Request Aadhaar removal from their database.

Note: As per TRAI rules, they are required to do this on request.

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Step 3: Remove Aadhaar from Digital Wallets 
After a 2018 Supreme Court ruling, wallet apps cannot force Aadhaar for regular use.

• Open apps like Paytm, PhonePe, etc.
• Go to KYC or Profile Settings.
• Select Remove or Replace Aadhaar (use another ID if needed).
• If the option is not available, write to their customer support and request formal delinking.

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Step 4: Reverify with Another ID
Some apps may ask for re-verification after you remove Aadhaar. You can use:

• PAN card
• Driving license
• Passport

Apps may also ask you to do a quick selfie or video KYC—this is normal and helps secure your account.

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Step 5: Use Masked Aadhaar or Virtual ID
If you must share your Aadhaar, use one of these safer options:

• Masked Aadhaar: Shows only the last 4 digits. Safer for display.
• VID (Virtual ID): A temporary 16-digit code. Works like Aadhaar for most verifications.

Generate both at uidai.gov.in.

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Final Thoughts Every unused Aadhaar link is like leaving a door unlocked in your digital life. The more apps and services that store your Aadhaar, the higher the risk if even one of them is breached. Delinking old accounts is not just cleanup—it’s protection. Secure your identity. Stay aware. And let’s stop Aadhaar scams before they happen. — Team ipingU Managed Security Services LLP

ipingU MSS