Outlook Business Desk
Several people reported receiving an unexpected WhatsApp message claiming an APAAR ID had already been created for a student. Many said they had never applied for it or received any prior communication from their school.
The WhatsApp alert cited a unique APAAR ID number and claimed it appeared in DigiLocker. It highlighted the One Nation, One Student ID initiative and urged recipients to complete Aadhaar-based eKYC to unlock related benefits.
Recipients found the message alarming because it arrived without consent or prior notice. Its unsolicited nature, combined with references to Aadhaar-linked verification, raised strong concerns around privacy, misuse of data and possible fraud.
The WhatsApp message appeared to originate from a verified government account, giving it an authentic look. Screenshots spread widely online, prompting users to question how an APAAR ID could exist without their knowledge or consent.
Cybersecurity experts caution that sudden messages urging immediate action or requesting Aadhaar details are often phishing attempts or social engineering. Legitimate student processes rarely start through unsolicited WhatsApp notifications, making such messages highly suspicious.
APAAR IDs should only be created through schools or educational institutions after verifying student information and obtaining consent. Messages sent directly to individuals, bypassing schools, are unusual and signal potential fraud or misuse.
The Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry (APAAR) is a Ministry of Education initiative that gives students a lifelong academic identity, securely storing certificates, degrees and skill credentials in one place through DigiLocker.
Students and parents should not click on links or share OTPs, Aadhaar numbers or personal information. Instead, they should access DigiLocker directly via the official app or website to check and verify their records safely.
Suspicious messages should be reported to WhatsApp and local cybercrime authorities, with screenshots preserved for investigation. Until APAAR’s rollout is clearer, awareness and proper communication are crucial to protect students from potential misuse of their personal data.