New Aadhaar Card Design May Hide ‘These’ Details, Show Only Photo And QR Code

UIDAI is reportedly working on a safer format to reduce misuse of Aadhaar photocopies and strengthen privacy.

The Aadhaar card, one of India’s most important identity documents, may soon get a major security-focused redesign. As per media reports, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is exploring a new format where the physical Aadhaar card may display only the cardholder’s photograph and a secure QR code, while other sensitive personal details could remain hidden.

The move is aimed at preventing misuse of Aadhaar information, especially when photocopies are submitted for routine services such as banking, SIM verification, or documentation.

Key Changes Being Reported

• Full Aadhaar number may not be visible
  Instead of showing all 12 digits, the new design may display only the last four digits, with the remaining digits masked using ‘X’, similar to the Masked Aadhaar concept.
• Father’s/Husband’s name may be removed
  Reports suggest relation details such as father’s name or husband’s name could be dropped from the card to improve privacy. Only limited address information may remain, possibly in a shorter “C/O” format.

What The New ‘Smart’ Aadhaar Could Include

• Stronger Secure QR Code
  The QR code may become larger and more encrypted, storing demographic details safely for verification without openly printing them.
• Advanced Anti-Forgery Features
  The updated card may include security upgrades such as:
  • Microtext printing
  • Hologram authentication
  • Invisible logo visible only under UV light

These additions are expected to make tampering or duplication much harder.

Why UIDAI Is Considering This Change

Aadhaar copies often carry sensitive information like full address, date of birth and Aadhaar number. This increases the risk of identity fraud and data misuse. By limiting visible information, UIDAI aims to strengthen personal data protection.

Aadhaar App Adds More Security

UIDAI has also expanded the Aadhaar app, allowing users to:

• Update address or mobile number online
• Access Aadhaar details securely
• Lock and unlock biometric data for added protection

In the app, only photo and QR code are shown upfront, while other details remain protected behind login.

Do You Need A New Aadhaar Card?

Old Aadhaar cards will remain valid
UIDAI has not indicated that existing cards will become invalid.

Those who want better durability and upgraded security features can order a PVC Aadhaar card through UIDAI’s official portal.