How To Lock Aadhaar Biometric To Prevent Any Potential Misuse?

Aadhaar is an important document that serves as a key identity document in India for a variety of services. Aadhaar cards allow access to a variety of government services and programs. Anyone, from babies to the elderly, may apply for an Aadhaar card. The Aadhaar Card contains critical personal information such as fingerprints, iris scans, and facial pictures, which are required for personal identity.

As data privacy and security concerns rise, it is more crucial than ever to guarantee that your data, particularly your biometrics, remain secure on your Aadhaar card. People who intend to violate security or commit fraud may misuse these data.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) provides many ways for locking your Aadhaar biometric data and preventing potential abuse. Locking your biometric data prevents your fingerprints and iris scans from being used for identification, providing an additional degree of security against identity theft and fraud.

Below are 3 ways by which you can lock your Aadhaar biometric easily:

1. Using the UIDAI Website

Step 1: Visit the official UIDAI website at uidai.gov.in/.

Step 2: Navigate to the ‘My Aadhaar’ section and select ‘Lock/Unlock Biometrics’.

Step 3: Tick the declaration box and click on ‘Lock/Unlock Biometrics’.

Step 4: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the captcha code.

Step 5: Request an OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered mobile number.

Step 6: Enter the OTP to enable biometric locking. You will receive a confirmation message once the process is complete.

2. Using the mAadhaar App

Step 1: Download and install the mAadhaar app from the Play Store or App Store.

Step 2: Open the app and log in with your mobile number.

Step 3: Tap on ‘My Aadhaar’ and enter your Aadhaar number, captcha code, and OTP.

Step 4: Select the ‘Biometric Lock’ option to lock your biometrics. You may need to set a PIN for this feature.

3. Via SMS

Step 1: Send an SMS from your Aadhaar-registered mobile number to 1947 with the message format:

GET OTP <last four digits of your Aadhaar number>

Step 2: After receiving the OTP, send another SMS in this format:

LOCKUID <last four digits of your Aadhaar number> <6-digit OTP>

You will receive a confirmation message regarding the status of your biometric lock.

Important Considerations:

Once locked, you will be unable to utilise your biometrics for any service until you unlock them.
You may unlock your biometrics using similar ways whenever needed.
To ensure security, do not share your Aadhaar number or OTP with anybody else.

By following these steps, you can successfully protect your Aadhaar biometrics against unauthorised access and exploitation.

Disclaimer: The information is covered based on the latest research and development available. However, it may not fully reflect all the current aspects of the subject matter. Moneydaily.in advises readers to visit the UIDAI’s website for further knowledge.