How to Lock and Unlock Your Aadhaar Biometrics for Safety

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Your Aadhaar number is one of the most important identity proofs in India. It holds your fingerprints and iris scan — information that, if misused, can cause serious harm. To protect this sensitive data, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) allows you to lock and unlock your Aadhaar biometrics anytime. This simple step ensures your Aadhaar can’t be misused for unauthorized verification or transactions.

Why Locking Aadhaar Biometrics Matters

Think of biometric locking like putting a digital lock on your fingerprints. Even if someone has your Aadhaar number, they can’t use it to verify your identity without your permission.

Here’s why this is crucial:

  • Prevents misuse of your Aadhaar at banks, SIM card centers, or eKYC points.
  • Protects your identity in case your Aadhaar card or number is leaked.
  • Gives you full control over when your biometrics are used.

Real Example:
In 2022, a Hyderabad resident reported that his Aadhaar was used for a fake SIM activation. Luckily, he had locked his biometrics a week earlier, and the transaction was denied. This simple habit saved him from major trouble.

How to Lock Your Aadhaar Biometrics

You can lock your Aadhaar biometrics online in a few minutes using the UIDAI website or mAadhaar app.

Method 1: Using the UIDAI Website

  1. Visit uidai.gov.in.
  2. Click on “Lock/Unlock Biometrics” under the Aadhaar Services section.
  3. Enter your Aadhaar number and the captcha code.
  4. Request an OTP on your registered mobile number.
  5. Enter the OTP and click Lock Biometrics.

Once locked, no one — not even you — can use biometric authentication until you unlock it.

Method 2: Using the mAadhaar App

  1. Open the mAadhaar app and log in.
  2. Go to Biometric Settings.
  3. Toggle the “Lock/Unlock Biometrics” option.

This is useful if you often use your Aadhaar on the go and want to quickly lock or unlock it.

How to Unlock Your Aadhaar Biometrics

You can unlock your biometrics temporarily for specific use, like verifying at a bank or government office.

  • Go to the same UIDAI portal or mAadhaar app.
  • Select Unlock Biometrics and verify with OTP.
  • Your biometrics remain unlocked for a short period or until you lock them again manually.

Pro Tip:
Always relock your biometrics after use. Think of it like re-locking your door after you step outside.

Final Thoughts

Locking your Aadhaar biometrics is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your identity. It gives you peace of mind and prevents unauthorized access to your data.

Take two minutes today to lock your Aadhaar — your future self will thank you.

Internal Linking Suggestions:

  • Link to: “How to Update Mobile Number in Aadhaar”
  • Link to: “Step-by-Step Guide to Download Aadhaar Card Online”

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