Aadhaar Security Tips: In a digital India, the Aadhaar card has become the most essential document for every small and big task. However, fraudsters are also using this identity to defraud people. In recent times, scammers have misused fingerprints to defraud thousands of people in AePS transactions, fake SIM cards, and loans. Money is being withdrawn from the accounts of even the most well-meaning individuals without their knowledge. Let’s understand what to do to prevent this and what the process is.
Aadhaar Biometric Lock: In today’s digital age, the Aadhaar card has become not only our identity but also the key to every major task, from banking to SIM verification. In such a scenario, even the slightest carelessness can pose a significant risk. A minor mistake with Aadhaar can increase the risk of fraudulent transactions or fraud in your name. Fraudsters misuse your fingerprint to make loan, SIM, or even bank-related transactions without you even realizing it. However, the relief is that UIDAI has provided a feature that allows you to lock your fingerprint with just one click. By doing so, no one will be able to misuse your biometric identity and your bank account will remain 100% safe.
For your information, biometrics—your fingerprint and iris scan—are often used in Aadhaar-based payment (AePS) fraud. By locking these, no one can use your fingerprint or iris to commit fraud on your bank account. Locking makes Aadhaar authentication more secure and helps prevent scammers.
First, learn how your Aadhaar is being used for fraud.
These days, Aadhaar is being misused extensively. This is most evident in AePS (Aadhaar Enabled Payment System), where money can be withdrawn from a bank using just a fingerprint. Scammers misuse it in a number of ways. Let’s explore them:
Fingerprint Cloning
Fraudsters or scammers copy your fingerprint scans from biometric devices installed at shops, banks, CSPs, or other locations. They copy these fingerprints to create fake fingerprints and use them on AePS machines to withdraw money from your account.
e-KYC Fraud
Many times, people obtain your Aadhaar number and fingerprints under the guise of filling out forms, purchasing a SIM card, or updating your bank account. These are then misused in the e-KYC process for fraudulent activities like activating fake SIM cards, opening bank accounts, and obtaining loans.
Now learn how to lock your biometrics
Through the UIDAI website –
To do this, first visit the UIDAI official website and go to the Biometric Lock/Unlock page.
Tap on Lock/Unlock Biometrics here.
Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and captcha.
Receive the OTP and enter it.
You will now see the Enable Locking option; click on it.
Your biometrics are now locked. You can unlock them if needed.
Through the mAadhaar app –
You can also lock your biometrics through the mAadhaar app.
To do this, open your mAadhaar app on your phone.
Go to Biometric Settings and turn on Biometric Lock.
Authenticate with an OTP.
Learn how to create a Virtual ID
A Virtual ID is a 16-digit number that can be used in place of your Aadhaar number. To create it:
Go to the UIDAI VID Generator page.
Enter your Aadhaar number and captcha.
Enter the OTP and click Generate VID.
You will receive your VID via SMS. It can be used for e-KYC and other services without revealing your Aadhaar number. Please note that the VID may change from time to time, but the Aadhaar number remains the same.
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