Personal identity protection has become important in the digital age. Aadhaar, a 12-digit unique identity number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), is an important form of identification for citizens of India. Biometric data, such as fingerprints and iris scans, are used as primary parts for safe identification.
Securing Aadhaar biometric data is crucial for maintaining personal privacy and reducing identity theft. When biometric data is locked, it prevents anyone from using your fingerprints or iris scans without consent, giving you control over when your personal data is used. This is particularly important since biometric traits are permanent and cannot be changed like passwords.
What is the importance of securing your information?
The risk of financial fraud is also minimized by locking biometric data, as it can prevent unauthorized access to bank accounts that use biometric verification. Also, it helps avoid the misuse of services and benefits that are linked to the Aadhaar number, making sure that these services are used only by the rightful beneficiaries.
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The UIDAI has provided a facility that allows Aadhaar cardholders to ‘lock’ and ‘unlock’ their biometric information. When locked, the biometrics cannot be used for authentication, reducing the risk of unauthorized use. The ‘unlock’ feature is available for times when the cardholder needs to verify their identity using biometrics.
Locking and unlocking biometric data can also improve your understanding of how your personal information is used. It can keep a detailed record of how your biometrics were used, bringing transparency to the process.
The protection offered by locking Aadhaar biometric data is both effective and user-friendly. It’s designed to be a simple online process that offers flexibility without compromising overall security. This allows individuals to have immediate control over their biometric data, providing a secure mechanism to protect their identity in the digital age.
Detailed Process to Lock Aadhaar Biometric Data
The process is extremely simple, to lock and protect your biometrics, it can be done either online or through the app. Both steps are given below, use any of the methods to protect your data.
- Go to the official UIDAI website.
- Click on the ‘My Aadhaar’ tab and find ‘Aadhaar Services’.
- Select ‘Lock/Unlock Biometrics’ from the given options.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the security code (captcha) shown on the screen.
- Click on ‘Send OTP’ to receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number.
- After receiving the OTP, enter it for verification and login.
- Once logged in, go to the ‘Enable Biometric Locking’ option.
- Check the box to enable and then click on ‘Lock’ to activate the biometric lock.
How to secure it through a mobile app?
- Download and open the mAadhaar app.
- Complete the registration process using your Aadhaar number.
- Go to the ‘Biometric Settings’ and enable the ‘Biometric Lock’ feature.
- Verify the process with an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
How to Temporarily Unlock Biometric Data?
- Repeat the login process via the UIDAI website or mAadhaar app.
- Select ‘Unlock Biometrics’ after logging in.
- Your biometrics will be unlocked for 10 minutes, permitting necessary authentications.
The Importance of Regular Monitoring
Even after locking your biometric data, regular monitoring is recommended. Check the status of your biometric lock periodically and stay alert for any notifications of authentication attempts. This approach provides ongoing protection of your personal identity.