Govt, RBI in talks to allow use of QR code-based ‘offline Aadhaar

Govt, RBI in talks to allow use of QR code-based ‘offline Aadhaar

News:

Government and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) are in talks to allow use of ‘offline Aadhaar’ that relies on QR codes, instead of the biometric eKYC, for opening bank accounts, operating payment wallets and purchasing insurance covers.

Facts:

• The step is taken to address fears over surveillance, breach of privacy while sharing the Aadhaar number and the biometric verification.
• These methods will not require sharing of biometrics or involve UIDAI servers for Authentication.
• The offline KYC process will not need users to reveal their Aadhaar numbers.

• A service provider can download a QR code reader from the UIDAI site or get scanner that can read the code on an Aadhaar number printout.
• The offline processes will fulfil Supreme Court’s order ruling out Aadhaar authentication for private firms.