Aadhaar: A step-by-step guide to lock biometrics data to protect your money from being stolen

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₹20,000. The AEPS method serves as a user-friendly method for individuals to reach their bank accounts, particularly beneficial for those lacking smartphones or internet connectivity. Even if you don’t intend to use AEPS, there remains a chance that malicious individuals may exploit your data to infiltrate your accounts.

It is crucial to remain vigilant about potential risks and implement precautionary measures to safeguard against fraudulent activities. The Aadhaar Biometric Locking is a security feature that empowers Aadhaar cardholders to safeguard their biometric information, including fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition data, to prevent unauthorised access to their bank accounts. This feature is especially crucial in India, where the AEPS is extensively employed for cash withdrawals at ATMs and point-of-sale (POS) terminals, exclusively utilising Aadhaar biometrics.

To activate the Aadhaar biometric lock, you can either access the UIDAI website or utilise the mAadhaar app. Once your biometrics are locked, they cannot be used for Aadhaar authentication until you choose to unlock them, a process that can be initiated through the same methods. To secure your Aadhaar biometrics, follow these steps: Your Aadhaar biometrics are now securely locked.

If you wish to unlock them at any point, simply follow the same process and select “Unlock Biometrics" instead. It’s essential to understand that securing your Aadhaar biometrics does not impede your ability to utilise Aadhaar for various purposes, including identity verification. You can still employ your Aadhaar number and OTP to confirm your identity when necessary.