In today’s digital India, your most sensitive personal details like your Aadhaar number, PAN card, and mobile number — could already be floating around on the dark web. Yes, even if you’ve never shared them publicly.
But don’t panic.
This post will walk you through:
- ✅ How to check if your personal info is leaked
- 🔐 Simple steps to protect your identity going forward
- 🛡️ What to do if your data is already exposed
Why Your Personal Info Might Be Online.
Whether it’s signing up for SIM cards, bank accounts, or apps — we often hand over Aadhaar and PAN details without checking security. Meanwhile, companies and apps have been hacked, or leaked data due to weak protection.
Some common sources of data leaks:
- Fake loan apps
- Job scam sites
- Hacked government portals
- Online shopping or gaming apps
- Even local cyber cafes & document shops
Step 1: Check If Your Data Is Leaked
Option 1: Use HaveIBeenPwned.com
- Enter your email ID or phone number
- It will tell you if your info appeared in a known data breach
Option 2: Use Indian Leak Search Tools
- Use InstaLeak or Cyble Leak Checker (visit only trusted cybersecurity sites)
- Some platforms show whether Aadhaar, PAN, or banking data is part of known dumps
Option 3: Google It Smartly
Search your phone number or Aadhaar with quotes:“1234 5678 9012” site:pastebin.com
“YourName” Aadhaar leak filetype:pdf
If you find anything, take screenshots and proceed to Step 3.
Step 2: Take Basic Security Actions.
1. Lock Your Aadhaar (Optional But Helpful)
Go to: UIDAI Lock/Unlock Aadhaar
- You’ll need your Aadhaar number and OTP
- This blocks misuse until you unlock it again
2. Change Linked Mobile Numbers Where Needed
If your mobile is exposed:
- Change or delink from important accounts (banking, UPI, etc.)
3. Set Strong Passwords & 2FA
For email, bank accounts, DigiLocker, etc.:
- Use unique passwords
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)
Step 3: Watch Out For Red Flags
If your identity is leaked, be alert for:
- Calls asking for OTPs or PAN
- Fake loan approval messages
- Threats about loans or FIRs (ignore and report them)
- SMS with links claiming “Aadhaar update” or “PAN error”
Never click on these they are phishing attempts.
Step 4: File a Complaint (If You’re a Victim)
If someone is misusing your data:
- Visit: cybercrime.gov.in
- Select “Report Cyber Crime Related to Financial Fraud or Identity Theft”
- File FIR online or at a cyber police station with proof
You can also call the cyber helpline 1930 for financial fraud recovery (India only).
Final Thought from Cyberaegiss
Your data is your identity. Don’t wait until it’s misused. Stay aware, check leaks regularly, and educate your family too. At Cyberaegiss, we’ll keep breaking down cybersecurity into simple language — because safety begins with awareness.
🔗 Share this article with friends and family who might not even know their info is at risk.
