In response to increasing digital fraud, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) provides a “Lock/Unlock” feature. This acts as an “ON/OFF” switch for your fingerprints, iris scans, and face authentication, ensuring that even if someone has your Aadhaar number, they cannot perform unauthorized biometric transactions.
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1. Biometric Lock vs. UID Lock
It is important to distinguish between these two features available on the myAadhaar portal:
| Feature | What it Locks | What still works? |
| Biometric Lock | Fingerprints, Iris, and Face data. | OTP-based authentication and demographic verification. |
| UID (Aadhaar) Lock | The entire Aadhaar number. | Nothing. You must use a 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) for all services. |
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2. How to Lock Your Biometrics (Step-by-Step)
You can do this for free via the official UIDAI portal or the mAadhaar app.
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Visit the Portal: Go to the myAadhaar official website or open the mAadhaar app.
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Login: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the Captcha code.
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OTP Verification: Click “Send OTP.” Enter the 6-digit code received on your registered mobile number.
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Select Feature: Locate and click on “Lock/Unlock Biometrics” under the Services tab.
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Enable Lock: Read the terms, tick the consent box, and click “Lock.” Your biometrics are now instantly disabled for all global authentication.
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3. How to Unlock (Temporary vs. Permanent)
If you need to visit a bank or get a new SIM card, you must unlock your data:
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Temporary Unlock (Recommended): This opens a 10-minute window for you to complete your biometric scan. After 10 minutes, the system automatically re-locks your data for maximum security.
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Permanent Unlock (Disable): This removes the lock entirely until you choose to enable it again manually.
4. Why You Should Use This Feature
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Prevents AEB Fraud: Stops unauthorized cash withdrawals via the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS).
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eKYC Protection: Prevents someone from using your identity to open fake bank accounts or buy untraceable SIM cards.
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Identity Ownership: Ensures that your most sensitive biological data is only “active” when you explicitly intend to use it.
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