Aadhaar Security: How to Lock & Unlock Your Biometrics Online?

With the increasing number of cyber-attacks and data breaches, safeguarding personal information has become more crucial than ever. Aadhaar, being one of the most widely used identity verification tools in India, contains sensitive biometric details like fingerprints and iris scans. If these details fall into the wrong hands, they can be misused for fraudulent activities.

To enhance security, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) offers a biometric lock facility that prevents unauthorized access to your Aadhaar data. By enabling this feature, you could ensure that your biometrics cannot be used for authentication without your consent, adding an extra layer of protection to your personal identity.

What Is Aadhaar Biometric Lock And Unlock Feature?

To strengthen the security of Aadhaar details, UIDAI has introduced a mechanism to lock and unlock the Aadhaar number (UID). This service is accessible through the UIDAI website or the mAadhaar app.

Once the Aadhaar number is locked, the holder cannot use their UID, UID Token, or Virtual ID (VID) for any form of authentication, including biometric, demographic, and OTP-based verification. This feature prevents unauthorized access and potential misuse of Aadhaar details.

Step-By-Step Process For Aadhaar Card Biometric Lock

Before locking the UID, the Aadhaar number holder must have a 16-digit VID (Virtual ID). If they do not have one, they can generate it via SMS or the UIDAI website.

How To Generate VID Using SMS?

• Send an SMS in the following format: GVID to 1947.
• The 16-digit VID will be sent to the registered mobile number.

How To Lock Aadhaar UID Online?

• Visit the UIDAI website.
• Under the 'My Aadhaar' tab, click on Aadhaar Lock & Unlock services.
• Select the UID Lock radio button and enter your Aadhaar Number, Full Name, and PIN Code as per the latest details.
• Enter the security code displayed on the screen.
• Click on Send OTP (or select TOTP from the mAadhaar app) and submit the request.
• Once verified, your Aadhaar UID will be locked successfully.

Step-By-Step Process For Aadhaar Card Biometric Unlock

To unlock the UID, the Aadhaar number holder must have their latest 16-digit VID.

How To Unlock Aadhaar UID Online?

• Visit the UIDAI website.
• Select the Unlock radio button.
• Enter the latest VID and security code displayed on the screen.
• Click on Send OTP (or select TOTP from the mAadhaar app) and submit the request.
• Once verified, your Aadhaar UID will be unlocked successfully.

Using mAadhaar App For Lock/Unlock Services

Aadhaar holders can also use the mAadhaar app for locking or unlocking their UID. The app provides a convenient and secure way to manage Aadhaar security settings directly from a smartphone.

What If You Forget VID After Locking UID?

If you forget your VID after locking your UID, you can retrieve it using the SMS service. The steps are as follows

• Send an SMS in the format: RVID to 1947 from the registered mobile number.
• The 16-digit VID will be sent to your registered mobile number.