Aadhaar app to enable offline sharing by exposing minimal data: UIDAI CEO, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• A new Aadhaar app is under testing to minimize data shared in public places.
• The app features a dense QR code containing all Aadhaar user data, including photo, for offline use.
• The QR code is digitally signed by UIDAI, making it nearly impossible to forge.
• UIDAI introduced Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs) to discourage physical Aadhaar copies.

Detailed Insights:

• The new Aadhaar app aims to allow selective sharing of information as needed, enhancing user privacy.
• The digitally signed QR code ensures that the information received by OVSEs is legitimate and verifiable offline.
• OVSEs, such as hotel receptions, are encouraged to use the app instead of collecting physical Aadhaar copies.
• The UIDAI CEO ruled out a complete ban on storing physical IDs to avoid excluding individuals without smartphones.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Aadhaar: A 12-digit unique identification number issued to all Indian residents.
• UIDAI: The statutory authority responsible for issuing Aadhaar numbers and managing the Aadhaar database.
• Offline Verification Seeking Entities (OVSEs): Entities that seek to verify the identity of individuals offline.