In the current age of digital advancement, the e-Aadhaar card stands out as a digitally signed document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). This digital signature is pivotal as it guarantees the authenticity and legitimacy of the Aadhaar card.
However, with the rise in digital scams, it is crucial to verify the signature on an Aadhaar card. This article elaborates on the steps to verify the digital signature on an e-Aadhaar card and provides insights on how to check a fake Aadhaar card.
Importance of Verifying the Signature in Aadhaar Card
The UIDAI incorporates digital signatures on e-Aadhaar cards to ensure the document’s integrity and authenticity. Verifying these signatures certifies that the Aadhaar card belongs to a legitimate source and has not been tampered with. By doing so, you can be assured that the information delivered is accurate and unforgeable.
What is a Digital Signature?
A digital signature is an encrypted stamp of authentication on digital documents. It guarantees that the document has not undergone alterations since it was signed. For an e-Aadhaar card, the digital signature ensures that all information contained is accurate and that it is officially issued by the UIDAI.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verify the Signature in Aadhaar Card
Here are the steps to effectively verify the digital signature in your e-Aadhaar card:
Step 1: Open the e-Aadhaar PDF
Locate the downloaded e-Aadhaar card PDF file on your device and open it using a PDF reader. Adobe Acrobat Reader is the most commonly used application for this purpose.
Step 2: Enable Usage Rights
Before proceeding to verify signature in aadhar card, you need to allow permissions if the PDF is secured. You’ll be prompted to allow certain document usage rights. Click on the “Enable All Features” option if such a prompt appears.
Step 3: Certification Validation
On opening the file, you will see a small box indicating the validity of the signature. This signature panel usually appears on the top or left side of the PDF. Here’s how you can proceed:
- Click on Signature Panel: Look for a tab on the top of the PDF that says “Signatures.” Clicking this will expand the digital signature section.
- Validate Signature: Right-click on the “Signature” and choose “Validate Signature.”
Step 4: Trust Manager
– When you click on “Validate Signature,” the validation details will display. It will show whether the signature is valid, the certificate is valid, and if it is trusted for the purpose. You need to trust the certificate if it’s not already trusted.
– Choose “Signature Properties.”
– Click on “Show Certificate.”
– You’ll navigate to the “Certificate Viewer” window that showcases the details of the certificate.
– Select “Trust” and then click “Add to Trusted Identities.”
– Mark the certification as trusted by giving it the required permissions.
Step 5: Confirm Certification
After adding the certificate to trusted identities, validate the signature again. The signature should now appear as a valid and trusted signature.
Step 6: Save the Document
Lastly, save the updated document to retain the certification of trust. You can now ensure that the e-Aadhaar card is authentic and verified.
Additional Steps to Check Fake Aadhaar Card
Even though verifying the digital signature confirms the document’s authenticity, it’s also wise to check fake aadhar card by looking for other signs of a fake Aadhaar card:
- Check the UIDAI Watermark: Every e-Aadhaar card has a UIDAI watermark in the background, ensuring that the card is genuine.
- Cross-verify with Aadhar number: Use the official UIDAI website to verify the Aadhaar number’s genuineness by entering the 12-digit number in the provided section.
- Scan QR Code: The e-Aadhaar card contains a QR code that when scanned, should display the personal details directly from the UIDAI server.
Conclusion
Verifying the digital signature in an Aadhaar card is a crucial step in ensuring the document’s legitimacy and authenticity. Following the steps outlined in this article will help you effectively verify the digital signature and check for any indications of a fake Aadhaar card.
By being vigilant and carrying out these verifications, you can safeguard your identity and avoid falling victim to digital frauds. Always rely on trusted methods and the official UIDAI website for any concerns regarding your Aadhaar card.
