To improve the Aadhaar security, The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced to add a new security parameter, face recognition system. It’s mandatory to do facial recognition by taking on-the-spot live picture, when you go buy a SIM card (new or replacement), public distribution system, office attendance at government offices or at a bank for Aadhaar verification.

Face recognition is an extra feature that will improve the security of Aadhaar with regular authentication process that identifies fingerprints or iris (eyes). Official circular are sent by UIDAI (on June 19 and August 17) to Authentication Service Agencies (ASAs), Authentication User Agencies (AUAs) and certified biometric device providers. Not following this process will be treated as a criminal offence by authentication agencies, punishable with imprisonment and fine under section 42 and 43 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, sources said.

UIDAI CEO Ajay Bhushan Pandey said, “There have been many instances where people have been excluded from Aadhaar authentication as their fingerprint are worn due to old age, or since they are involved in manual labour or agricultural work. The face recognition will help include such people in the Aadhaar.”

“Face recognition is the advanced technology and provides more security. After we hit 10 per cent of authentication transactions, we will have a review of any possible shortfalls that we notice in the system or processes. Thereafter we will expand the system within the telecom sector and also to other service areas” the UIDAI CEO said.

Whenever an individual seeks authentication based on Aadhaar, the authorized machine/device being used for the purpose would also capture a picture of the face of the individual. The photo, along with the fingerprint or iris scan, would be sent to UIDAI, which will verify the details on its database, and after confirmation will be sent to the individual based on the facial and fingerprint/iris confirmations.