Email Update Feature Makes Aadhaar More Secure and Accessible

In a significant move to strengthen India's digital identity ecosystem, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has enabled residents to add or update their email IDs in Aadhaar directly through the Aadhaar App , eliminating the need to visit Aadhaar enrolment or update centres. The facility, launched on July 1, 2026 , is being offered free of cost for six months and is aimed at improving convenience, security and transparency for more than a billion Aadhaar users.

The initiative has already witnessed a strong response. According to UIDAI, over 2.5 lakh email updates were recorded within the first two days of the service becoming available, highlighting the growing adoption of digital self-service platforms and the increasing reliance on smartphone-based governance.

The new feature is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing digital security . Once an email ID is linked to Aadhaar, users receive real-time email notifications whenever an Aadhaar authentication request is executed , whether for banking services, telecom connections, government welfare schemes, KYC verification or other transactions. These alerts enable Aadhaar holders to quickly identify suspicious activity and report unauthorized use, creating an additional safeguard against identity theft and fraud.

Experts note that combining email alerts with existing SMS notifications creates a multi-layered authentication monitoring system , significantly improving transparency and allowing users to track how and when their Aadhaar credentials are being used.

The email update facility is part of UIDAI's broader effort to transform Aadhaar from a simple identity document into a secure, user-controlled digital identity platform . The revamped Aadhaar App, which is gradually replacing the older mAadhaar platform, incorporates several advanced features, including Face Authentication , biometric lock and unlock controls , authentication history tracking , QR code-based verification , and consent-based data sharing . These tools give users greater control over their personal information while reducing the need to share physical photocopies of Aadhaar cards.

The app's growing popularity is reflected in its usage figures. UIDAI data shows that more than 40 lakh residents have updated their mobile numbers through the Aadhaar App, while nearly 10 lakh users have updated their addresses . The addition of email update functionality further expands the range of services available digitally.

Officials said the initiative aligns with the government's Digital India and Viksit Bharat vision by reducing paperwork, minimizing visits to physical centres and promoting secure, paperless governance. Available on both Android and iOS , the Aadhaar App is increasingly becoming a one-stop platform for managing Aadhaar-related services, while empowering citizens with greater control, convenience and security in the digital age.