How to Lock and Unlock Biometrics details in Your Aadhaar Card?

In today’s digital age, safeguarding your personal information is more important than ever. Aadhaar, issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), serves as a crucial identity document for Indian citizens. It contains sensitive biometric information such as fingerprints, iris scans, and facial data, which are used to authenticate identity for various government and private services.

However, with rising concerns over identity theft and misuse of personal data, ensuring that your Aadhaar biometric details are secure is essential. One of the most effective ways to protect your Aadhaar information is by locking your biometric data. Locking your Aadhaar biometrics prevents unauthorized access and misuse, adding an extra layer of security.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about locking and unlocking your Aadhaar biometrics, why it matters, and how you can protect your identity from fraudulent activities. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to manage your Aadhaar biometrics with confidence.

What are Aadhaar Biometrics?

Biometrics refer to unique physical characteristics that are used to identify an individual. In the context of Aadhaar, the following biometric data is collected:

✅ Fingerprints – All ten fingerprints are recorded during the Aadhaar enrollment process.
✅ Iris Scans – Both eyes are scanned to create a unique identification pattern.
✅ Facial Recognition – Facial images are captured to add an additional layer of identification.

The UIDAI uses these biometric details to authenticate identity whenever an Aadhaar-linked service is accessed. For instance, when you use your Aadhaar number to open a bank account or avail of a government subsidy, your fingerprint or iris scan may be required for verification.

Since biometric data is unique and sensitive, unauthorized access can lead to identity theft or financial fraud. This is why UIDAI provides the option to lock your Aadhaar biometrics to prevent misuse.

Why Should You Lock Your Aadhaar Biometrics?

Locking your Aadhaar biometrics is an essential security measure that helps prevent unauthorized access and protects your sensitive data. Here are some key reasons why you should consider locking your Aadhaar biometrics:

🔒 1. Prevent Unauthorized Transactions

Fraudsters can attempt to use your biometric data to carry out unauthorized transactions, such as opening bank accounts or availing of government benefits. Locking your biometrics ensures that such activities are blocked.

🔒 2. Protect Against Identity Theft

Biometric details are permanent and cannot be changed. If stolen or misused, your biometric data could lead to serious identity theft issues. Locking it reduces this risk significantly.

🔒 3. Enhanced Privacy and Control

By locking your biometrics, you gain more control over how your data is used. You can unlock it temporarily for specific transactions, ensuring that your data remains protected otherwise.

🔒 4. Peace of Mind

Knowing that your Aadhaar biometrics are locked provides peace of mind, especially when you are not using Aadhaar-based services frequently.

Pre-Requisites for Locking and Unlocking Aadhaar Biometrics

Before you proceed to lock or unlock your Aadhaar biometrics, make sure you meet the following requirements:

✅ An Active Mobile Number – Your Aadhaar must be linked to an active mobile number to receive OTP (One-Time Password) verification.
✅ Access to the UIDAI Website or mAadhaar App – You can lock and unlock biometrics using the official UIDAI website or the mAadhaar app.
✅ A Stable Internet Connection – Ensure you have a reliable internet connection to complete the process without interruptions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Lock Aadhaar Biometrics

You can lock your Aadhaar biometrics through either the UIDAI website or the mAadhaar app. Here’s how:

(A) Locking Biometrics Using the UIDAI Website

1. Visit the UIDAI Portal
• Go to https://uidai.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the Biometrics Lock Section
• Under the "My Aadhaar" section, select "Lock/Unlock Biometrics."
3. Enter Your Aadhaar Number
• Type in your 12-digit Aadhaar number.
4. Generate OTP
• Click on "Send OTP." You will receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number.
5. Enter OTP and Submit
• Enter the OTP and hit "Submit."
6. Enable Lock
• Click on "Enable Locking" to lock your biometrics.

✅ Confirmation – You will receive a confirmation message once the biometrics are locked.

(B) Locking Biometrics Using the mAadhaar App

1. Download and Install the mAadhaar App
• Available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
2. Login to Your Aadhaar Account
• Register your Aadhaar and mobile number.
3. Navigate to Biometrics Settings
• Go to the "Biometrics Lock" option.
4. Enable Lock
• Toggle the switch to enable locking.
5. Authenticate Using OTP
• You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number.
6. Confirm Locking
• Once confirmed, your biometrics will be locked.

How to Unlock Aadhaar Biometrics

You can unlock your Aadhaar biometrics temporarily or permanently.

(A) Temporary Unlock via UIDAI Website

1. Visit the UIDAI portal.
2. Go to “Lock/Unlock Biometrics.”
3. Enter your Aadhaar number and OTP.
4. Select “Unlock” (this will be valid for 10 minutes).

(B) Temporary Unlock via mAadhaar App

1. Open the mAadhaar app.
2. Go to "Biometrics Lock."
3. Toggle the switch to “Unlock.”
4. Authenticate using OTP.
5. The unlock will remain valid for 10 minutes.

(C) Permanent Unlock

1. Follow the same steps as temporary unlock.
2. After unlocking, select "Disable Locking."
3. Confirm to permanently unlock.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

👉 OTP Not Received: Ensure your phone number is linked with Aadhaar and has network coverage.
👉 Website/App Not Working: Try clearing browser cache or updating the app.
👉 Incorrect Details: Double-check Aadhaar number and OTP.

Safety Tips for Managing Aadhaar Biometrics

✅ Keep your Aadhaar number and OTP confidential.
✅ Avoid accessing UIDAI on public Wi-Fi networks.
✅ Regularly monitor Aadhaar-linked transactions for unusual activity.
✅ Enable two-factor authentication on apps that use Aadhaar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I lock my Aadhaar biometrics without a registered mobile number?
➡️ No, a registered mobile number is mandatory for OTP verification.

Q2. How long does the biometric unlock last?
➡️ The unlock lasts for 10 minutes unless you choose to unlock it permanently.

Q3. Can I lock/unlock biometrics offline?
➡️ No, locking and unlocking can only be done via the UIDAI website or the mAadhaar app.

Q4. Is there any fee for locking or unlocking biometrics?
➡️ No, the service is free of charge.

Locking and unlocking your Aadhaar biometrics is a simple yet powerful way to safeguard your identity from misuse. In an era where data breaches and identity theft are increasingly common, taking proactive steps to secure your Aadhaar information is essential.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively control how your biometric data is accessed and used. Take charge of your security today — lock your Aadhaar biometrics and protect yourself from potential fraud