Aadhar Authentication for Private Entities: Unlocking Convenience or Compromising Privacy?

The latest move to allow private parties to use Aadhaar authentication has been contentious on issues of privacy, security, and exclusion risks. Although the government has claimed that the move will improve service delivery and quality of life, critics have been stating that it can cause serious problems.

1.⁠ ⁠Privacy Risks: Centralizing sensitive biometric and demographic data makes one more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Past experiences such as the leak on the CoWIN portal highlight the risks involved in sharing personal data to exploit.

2.⁠ ⁠Surveillance Fears: Extending the scope of Aadhaar could open the way for mass surveillance, going against the Supreme Court in 2018 that Aadhaar must be voluntary.

3. Exclusion Issues: Excluded groups are likely to suffer from authentication failures or lack Aadhaar access, widening the digital divide and limiting access to essential services.

Experts call for stricter controls, transparency, and adherence to legal frameworks to prevent abuse and ensure inclusivity.

Source: Indian Express, Economic Times, BoomLive