Protecting your Aadhaar-linked biometric data has never been easier. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) offers a straightforward feature that lets you lock and unlock your biometric information — including fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition. This tool empowers you to keep your digital identity safe and ensure your biometrics can’t be misused without your permission. Whether privacy concerns or the desire for greater control drive you, locking your biometrics adds an important layer of security. Here’s a clear guide on how to manage your biometric lock using online and offline methods.
Understanding Biometric Locking
Biometric locking is a security option that enables Aadhaar holders to restrict access to their fingerprint, iris, and face data for authentication purposes. When biometric data is locked, no one can verify your identity using those biometrics through Aadhaar authentication. This helps prevent unauthorized use or fraud involving your personal biometric traits.
What Happens When Biometrics Are Locked?
Once locked, all biometric authentication using your Aadhaar’s fingerprint, iris, or face scans is blocked. This means:
- Neither individuals nor organizations can perform biometric-based Aadhaar verification with your details.
- Any attempt to use your locked biometrics will trigger an error message indicating that the data is inaccessible due to the lock.
Options to Unlock Your Biometrics
If you need to use biometric verification, you can unlock your data either temporarily or permanently:
- Temporary unlock: Allows biometric authentication for a brief window of 10 minutes.
- Permanent unlock: Removes the lock entirely until you choose to activate it again.
You can manage the locking and unlocking of your biometrics through:
- The official UIDAI website
- Aadhaar Seva Kendras (ASK centers)
- Enrollment centers
- The mAadhaar mobile app
Important: You must have a mobile number registered with your Aadhaar to use the biometric lock services online. If you don’t have a registered number, you will need to visit your nearest enrollment or update center in person.
Who Should Use the Biometric Lock?
The UIDAI encourages all Aadhaar holders with a registered mobile number to lock their biometrics as a precaution. This feature is vital for enhancing personal privacy and safeguarding sensitive data. If there’s any suspicion that your biometric information might be misused, or if you want to control who can access this data, locking your biometrics is a smart protective step.
In an era where digital identity fraud and privacy threats are increasingly common, locking your Aadhaar biometrics provides a meaningful safeguard. Take charge of your biometric security today by visiting the myAadhaar portal and using the simple locking feature to keep your identity safe and secure.
