How to identify the real Digilocker app amid ongoing scam

Digital document wallets like Digilocker make life easier — but scams that mimic the official app are on the rise. Recent advisories from the government warn of counterfeit Digilocker apps on app stores that try to steal personal documents and credentials. This guide shows clear, practical checks you can run right now to make sure you’re using the genuine Digilocker app and keep your documents safe.

Why fake Digilocker apps are dangerous

Fake apps can look almost identical to the real thing. Once installed, they can request excessive permissions, harvest OTPs and IDs, or silently upload your documents to a scammer-controlled server. Because Digilocker stores sensitive government documents (Aadhaar-linked items, driving licences, academic certificates), a compromised account can lead to identity theft or financial fraud. The Government of India and MeitY have issued advisories warning users to verify the app before downloading.

How to spot the real Digilocker app — quick checklist

Below are the fastest, most reliable signals that an app is genuine. Run through them before you tap Install.

1. Verify the publisher/developer name

The official Digilocker app is published by the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) / Government of India. On Google Play and the Apple App Store, check the developer/publisher field for that name. If the developer is a private individual, company, or anything other than NeGD/Government of India — do not install.

2. Confirm the app package or store listing

On Android the official package ID is the trustworthy Play Store listing for DigiLocker (look for com.digilocker.android and the verified publisher). On iOS, check that the app name and developer exactly match the official record. When in doubt, download only from the official Digilocker website’s “Download App” page rather than searching the store.

3. Check the app description and screenshots

Official listings mention Digilocker as a key Digital India initiative, include the official URL (digilocker.gov.in), and show authentic screenshots of the app’s document wallet features. Poor grammar, generic screenshots, or screenshots that show unrelated branding are red flags.

4. Look at the install count and reviews — but read carefully

Large, long-standing downloads and consistent, dated reviews are positive signs. However, criminals sometimes use fake positive reviews. Read a few recent reviews (especially negative ones) to spot reports that the app asks for OTPs, extra permissions, or behaves suspiciously. If reviews mention data theft or sudden pop-ups, avoid the app.

5. Inspect requested permissions

Digilocker needs reasonable permissions to function (storage access to save files, network access). It should not require call logs, SMS reading (unless clearly documented for OTP flows), or full device admin rights. If an app asks for unrelated, intrusive permissions — do not grant them. More is not better. Less is safer.

Before you download: safe steps to follow

1. Open your browser and visit the official site digilocker.gov.in and follow the Download App links from there. The official site points to the genuine store listings.
2. Prefer downloading on a desktop and scan the store link before opening it on your phone.
3. Confirm the “Last updated” date and version; official apps show regular maintenance updates. Unmaintained clones may show old dates or unrealistic version numbers.
4. Avoid third-party app stores. Only use Google Play or Apple App Store listings that the official site references.

If you suspect you installed a fake Digilocker app

Act quickly and follow these steps:

Immediate actions

1. Uninstall the suspicious app immediately.
2. Change the passwords and PINs for accounts that may be linked (phone number, email, Aadhaar-linked services).
3. If you used OTPs or entered Aadhaar details in the fake app, contact your bank and report potential fraud. Consider blocking sensitive services temporarily.
4. Report the app to the Play Store/App Store and file a complaint with local cybercrime authorities or CERT-IN if you are in India. Government advisories urge users to report counterfeit apps to reduce spread.

Recovering your DigiLocker account

Log in to the official Digilocker site or verified app and check activity logs, issued documents, and linked accounts. If you notice unauthorized downloads or document sharing, report them using the Digilocker help/contact methods listed on the official site.

Best practices to protect your Digilocker and documents

• Use the official Digilocker app or the web portal only. Bookmark the official site.
• Never share OTPs, login passwords, or Aadhaar details in response to calls, messages, or pop-ups that claim to be from Digilocker. Official channels do not ask you to share OTPs via third-party forms.
• Enable additional protections where available (for example, follow any new account activation or multi-factor steps announced by CBSE or other issuers for student documents). Educational boards and authorities sometimes add activation codes or extra checks for security.
• Keep your phone’s operating system and apps updated to reduce vulnerability to exploitation.
• Use a reputable mobile security scanner if you often download many apps; it can catch known malicious packages.

Final checklist — 10-second test before you press “Install”

1. Developer = National e-Governance Division / Government of India?
2. Link originates from digilocker.gov.in?
3. Store listing matches the official screenshots and description?
4. Downloads/reviews look genuine and recent?
5. Permissions requested are reasonable?
   If any answer is “no” or “not sure,” do not install.

Stay informed — and report suspicious apps

Government agencies have repeatedly warned about fake Digilocker apps impersonating official services. The safest path is simple: download from the official site’s store links, verify the publisher, and treat OTPs and personal details as highly sensitive. If you see a suspicious Digilocker listing, report it to the store and to cybercrime authorities so others don’t fall victim.

Using Digilocker correctly keeps your documents handy and secure. A few cautious checks before installing an app will protect you from most scams — and help keep the digital document ecosystem safe for everyone.

Also Read: Sunny Deol to Lead Hanuman Musical — Big Reveal! – Logic Matters