How to Lock Aadhaar Biometric Data to Prevent Aadhaar Fraud in 2025
Many people use their Aadhaar biometric data to prove who they are, but sometimes fraudsters misuse this information to steal money through the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS). There have been cases where money was withdrawn without any OTP, which increases the risk of your bank account being hacked. To protect yourself, you can use the Aadhaar biometric lock feature, which temporarily blocks the use of your biometric data for authentication.
What Is Aadhaar Biometric Lock and How Can It Help You?
The Aadhaar Biometric Lock is a security option that lets you lock your fingerprint, iris, and face biometric data linked to your Aadhaar number. When locked, these biometrics can’t be used by anyone—including you—to confirm your identity. This helps prevent misuse if your biometric details are stolen or if you lose your Aadhaar card or phone.
Main Benefits of Locking Aadhaar Biometrics
- Keep your biometric information safe and private.
- Stop unauthorized use of your Aadhaar biometrics if you lose your card or if it gets stolen.
- Increase security if you don’t plan to use Aadhaar authentication for some time.
How Does Aadhaar Biometric Lock Work?
Once you lock your biometrics, no one can authenticate your identity using fingerprint, iris, or facial recognition. If someone tries to use your biometrics for Aadhaar verification, the system will show an error message with code “330,” which means biometrics are locked. This prevents misuse even if someone has your Aadhaar number.
Steps to Lock Aadhaar Biometrics Online in 2025
You can easily lock your Aadhaar biometrics using the UIDAI website or the mAadhaar app. Just follow these simple steps:
Using the UIDAI Website
- Go to the UIDAI official website.
- Click on the “My Aadhaar” tab and select “Aadhaar lock/unlock” under “Aadhaar services.”
- Enter your Aadhaar number or Virtual ID (VID).
- Complete the captcha and click “Send OTP.”
- Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
- Enter the four-digit security code shown on the screen and click “Enable” to lock your biometrics.
Using the mAadhaar App
- Open the mAadhaar app and register your Aadhaar number with your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP sent to your mobile.
- Set a four-digit PIN for extra security.
- Tap the “Lock Biometrics” option.
- Enter your PIN to confirm locking your biometric data.
How to Unlock Aadhaar Biometrics
You can unlock your biometric data temporarily or fully through the same platforms when you need to use biometric authentication again. Just follow the unlocking steps on the UIDAI website, the mAadhaar app, or by visiting your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK).
Who Can Use Aadhaar Biometric Lock?
If your mobile number is registered with Aadhaar, you can use the biometric lock service. This option is helpful anytime you want to protect your biometric data, especially if you think it has been compromised.
Important Tips to Keep Your Aadhaar Safe
- Never share your Aadhaar number or biometric information with anyone unless you trust them completely.
- Always keep your Aadhaar card safe and avoid carrying it around unless needed.
- If your mobile number is not registered with Aadhaar, visit the nearest Enrollment Centre or Mobile Update Endpoint to register it.
Being careful and using the Aadhaar biometric lock can help you prevent fraud and protect your identity. Stay alert and secure your Aadhaar biometric data today.