UIDAI Starts Deactivating Aadhaar Numbers of Deceased Persons to Improve Database Integrity

New Delhi: In a key move to improve the accuracy and security of the Aadhaar database, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has begun deactivating Aadhaar numbers of deceased individuals. This action aims to reduce identity fraud and unauthorized use of Aadhaar numbers while maintaining the integrity of India’s digital identity system.

UIDAI, in partnership with the Registrar General of India (RGI), has accessed about 1.55 crore death records from 24 States and Union Territories through the Civil Registration System (CRS). After validation, around 1.17 crore Aadhaar numbers have already been deactivated. A similar effort is ongoing for non-CRS States and UTs, with 6.7 lakh records received so far and validation in progress.

To further support this initiative, UIDAI has launched a new online service called "Report Death of a Family Member" on the myAadhaar Portal, effective June 9, 2025. This service is available for residents of 24 States/UTs using the CRS platform. It allows family members to report the death of a loved one by submitting the deceased’s Aadhaar number, Death Registration Number, and other necessary personal details after authentication. Based on verification, the Aadhaar number will be deactivated.

UIDAI is also working to connect the remaining States and UTs with the myAadhaar Portal and is looking for partnerships with banks and other organizations in the Aadhaar ecosystem to gather death data. Additionally, UIDAI is collaborating with State Governments to check the status of Aadhaar holders over 100 years old as part of a pilot project. Verified records will be validated before any deactivation occurs.

Highlighting the importance of preventing misuse of Aadhaar numbers after death, UIDAI has requested citizens to report the death of family members promptly after obtaining a valid death certificate from the authorities.

This proactive initiative is an important step toward ensuring the ongoing reliability and security of India’s largest digital identity database.