Posted by A recent cybercrime in Bihar, India, has highlighted vulnerabilities in the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS). Criminals exploited Aadhaar biometrics to withdraw money without requiring an OTP or phone call, presenting a serious threat to the financial security of individuals. This post will discuss strategies to prevent such cybercrimes.
Understanding the Threat
In this incident, cybercriminals:
- Obtained Aadhaar details and cloned thumb impressions from land records.
- Used AePS to conduct unauthorized transactions.
- Managed to execute these frauds without triggering standard security checks like OTPs.
Preventative Measures
- Conceal Aadhaar Number:
- Avoid sharing your Aadhaar number publicly. Use masked Aadhaar cards for verification purposes.
- Use Virtual IDs:
- Generate and use Virtual IDs (VID) instead of the Aadhaar number for online transactions. VIDs are temporary, revocable 16-digit numbers mapped to your Aadhaar number.
- Update Contact Information:
- Ensure that your contact details are updated with the UIDAI to receive notifications of any transactions or changes.
- Secure Your Biometric Data:
- Regularly update your biometric data and consider locking your biometrics through the UIDAI portal when not in use.
- Monitor Financial Transactions:
- Keep a close watch on your bank statements and transactions. Report any suspicious activities immediately.
- Use Strong Authentication Methods:
- Whenever possible, opt for multi-factor authentication methods. Avoid relying solely on biometrics for high-stakes transactions.
What to Do If You’re a Victim
If you suspect that you’ve fallen victim to AePS fraud:
- Report Immediately: Contact your bank and report the fraudulent transaction.
- National Cybercrime Reporting Portal: File a complaint on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
- Police Report: Lodge an FIR with your local police station for legal assistance.
Conclusion
With increasing reliance on digital payments, safeguarding Aadhaar details and biometric data has become crucial. By adopting the above measures, individuals can better protect themselves from such cyber threats and ensure the security of their financial information. Stay vigilant and proactive in securing your digital identity.
Spyboy blog 