How to Lock/Unlock Your Biometrics in Aadhaar?

Aadhaar, India’s unique biometric identification system, is a vital tool for authentication and access to various services and transactions. One of its key features is the ability to lock and unlock your biometrics, giving you control and added security over your personal data. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to lock and unlock your biometrics using the mAadhaar app and the UIDAI official website.

Understanding Biometrics Locking in Aadhaar

Biometrics locking in Aadhaar involves temporarily disabling the use of your biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans) for authentication purposes. This feature is especially useful if you suspect that your biometric data might have been compromised or if you want an additional layer of security.

When your biometrics are locked, no one can use your fingerprints or iris scans to authenticate, preventing unauthorized access to your Aadhaar-linked services.

Locking Your Biometrics in Aadhaar

You can lock your biometrics through two primary methods: the UIDAI official website and the mAadhaar mobile app. Below are the step-by-step instructions for both methods:

Locking Biometrics via the Aadhaar Website

1. Visit the UIDAI Website: Go to https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/.
2. Login:
   • Click on the “Login” option on the homepage.
   • Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) and the captcha code.
   • Click on the “Login with OTP” button.
   • Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click on the “Continue” button.
3. Lock Your Biometrics:
   • Click on the “Lock/Unlock Your Biometrics” link.
   • Agree to the declaration that states, “I understand that after biometric lock is enabled, I will not perform biometric authentication until I unlock biometric.”
   • Click on “Lock Biometrics.”
4. Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation message indicating that your biometrics have been locked.

Locking Biometrics via the mAadhaar Mobile App

1. Download and Install the App: Download the mAadhaar mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Open the App:
   • Enter your four-digit password to access the app.
   • Click on your profile, re-enter the four-digit password, and click “OK.”
3. Enable Biometric Lock:
   • Click on the three vertical dots and select the “Biometric Setting” option.
   • Tick the box next to “Enable Biometric Lock.”
   • A disclaimer will appear stating that “you will be able to perform bio auth for the next 6 hours.” Click “OK.”
   • Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click “OK.”
4. Confirmation: You will see a message confirming that your biometrics have been locked.

Unlocking Your Biometrics in Aadhaar

When you need to access Aadhaar-linked services requiring biometric authentication, you can unlock your biometrics using the same platforms.

Unlocking Biometrics via the Aadhaar Website

1. Visit the UIDAI Website: Go to https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/.
2. Login:
   • Click on the “Login” option.
   • Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) and the captcha code.
   • Click on the “Login with OTP” button.
   • Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click “Continue.”
3. Unlock Your Biometrics:
   • Click on the “Lock/Unlock Your Biometrics” link.
   • Select “Unlock Biometrics.”
   • Click on “Disable Locking Features.”
4. Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation message indicating that your biometrics have been unlocked.

Unlocking Biometrics via the mAadhaar Mobile App

1. Open the App:
   • Enter your four-digit password to access the app.
   • Open your profile.
2. Unlock Biometrics:
   • Click on “BIOMETRICS LOCKED (CLICK TO UNLOCK).”
   • Enter your four-digit password and click “OK.”
3. Confirmation: A popup will appear stating “Successfully unlocked your biometric.”

Reasons to Lock Your Biometrics

There are several situations where locking your biometrics may be beneficial:

• Suspicion of Compromise: If you suspect your biometric data (fingerprints or iris scans) has been compromised.
• Enhanced Security: Adds an extra layer of security for sensitive services and financial transactions.
• Temporary Deactivation: Prevent misuse during prolonged absences from your regular residence.
• Personal Preference: Exercising control over your personal data for added peace of mind.

Conclusion

Locking and unlocking your biometrics in Aadhaar is a simple and effective way to safeguard your personal data. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily manage your biometric settings, ensuring that your data remains secure and protected from unauthorized access.

Being proactive in securing your personal information is always a wise decision, and the biometrics locking feature in Aadhaar offers a convenient way to enhance your data security.