If you have ever wondered <mark>how to disable AEPS</mark>, you’re not alone. Over the past few years, the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) has become a major digital banking tool in India. While AEPS is convenient, especially for cash withdrawals and balance checks at micro-ATMs, many users prefer to disable it due to privacy concerns, fraud risks, or simply because they do not use the service.
In this detailed and human-written guide, we will walk step-by-step through what AEPS is, why people disable it, and how to disable AEPS safely through legitimate channels without compromising your financial security.
What Is AEPS and Why Might You Want to Disable It?
AEPS—Aadhaar Enabled Payment System—is a banking service that allows customers to perform basic financial transactions using their Aadhaar number and biometric authentication. It is especially common in rural and semi-urban areas.
Why Some People Want to Disable AEPS
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Security & Fraud Risks:
With rising biometric-based fraud cases, many customers prefer to block features they rarely use. According to several cybersecurity reports, AEPS-related frauds increased due to biometric cloning attempts and misuse of Aadhaar details (source: NPCI annual updates). -
Privacy Concerns:
Some users simply do not want their Aadhaar linked to financial transactions. -
No Personal Use:
Many people have access to UPI, net banking, and mobile banking apps, making AEPS unnecessary.
Whatever your reason, it’s important to know that you cannot disable AEPS by yourself online. AEPS is controlled by banks and the NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India), and only authorized institutions can disable or restrict it on your account.
How to Disable AEPS Safely (Legitimate Methods Only)
This guide explains how to disable AEPS without involving any unauthorized apps, unknown agents, or dangerous shortcuts. The steps below are the only legitimate ways to ensure AEPS is deactivated for your Aadhaar-linked bank account.
1. Visit Your Bank Branch (Most Effective Way)
The simplest and most reliable method is to visit your bank branch and request AEPS deactivation.
Steps:
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Carry your Aadhaar card and passbook or account-linked mobile number.
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Ask for an “AEPS Opt-Out/Disable Request Form.”
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Fill in the details and submit the form.
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Obtain an acknowledgment receipt.
Banks may take 24–72 hours to process the request.
➡️ Tip: Always ask whether AEPS has been completely disabled or partially restricted.
2. Request AEPS Deactivation Through Customer Support
Some banks allow AEPS deactivation through their customer care channels.
What to tell them:
“I want to opt out of the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System and disable AEPS on my bank account.”
Banks like SBI, HDFC, PNB, and ICICI may process the request after verifying your identity.
3. Disable Biometric Authentication in Aadhaar (Indirect Protection Method)
While this does not fully disable AEPS, it provides an extra safety layer by blocking biometric misuse.
How to lock Aadhaar biometrics:
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Visit the UIDAI website: https://uidai.gov.in/
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Navigate to “My Aadhaar” → “Aadhaar Services” → “Lock/Unlock Biometrics.”
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Login using OTP.
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Turn ON “Biometric Lock.”
Once locked, your biometrics cannot be used for AEPS transactions—this reduces fraud risk significantly.
4. File a Complaint if AEPS Was Misused
If you suspect unauthorized AEPS withdrawals, immediately:
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Contact your bank
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File a complaint with the NPCI
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Report the issue at the National Cybercrime Portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in
Banks are required under RBI guidelines to investigate unauthorized transactions if reported quickly.
Is Disabling AEPS Always Recommended?
Not necessarily.
AEPS is extremely useful for people who:
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Do not use smartphones
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Live in rural areas
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Need cash withdrawals through local agents
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Prefer biometric authentication over PIN-based systems
However, if you rely heavily on UPI and online banking and want maximum control over your Aadhaar usage, then learning how to disable AEPS is a smart choice.
How to Disable AEPS – Best Practices to Stay Safe
Here are simple habits to maintain security even after AEPS deactivation:
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Keep Aadhaar biometrics locked at all times unless needed.
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Never share Aadhaar-linked OTPs.
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Verify your bank statement every month.
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Use secure banking apps instead of unknown AEPS agents.
These basic steps drastically reduce your vulnerability to fraud.
Example Scenario: Why People Disable AEPS
Riya, a working professional from Delhi, noticed unauthorized withdrawals even though she never shared her Aadhaar details. After lodging a complaint, she was informed that someone attempted an AEPS transaction using biometric cloning. She immediately visited her bank to disable AEPS and locked her biometrics on the UIDAI portal. Since then, no suspicious activity has occurred.
This case highlights why awareness and timely action are essential.
Internal and External Links You May Add (SEO-Friendly Suggestions)
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External DoFollow link suggestions:
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https://uidai.gov.in/ (official Aadhaar services)
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https://www.npci.org.in/ (NPCI official updates)
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https://cybercrime.gov.in/ (government fraud reporting portal)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I disable AEPS online?
No. Banks do not provide a direct online AEPS deactivation option. You must visit a branch or contact customer support.
2. Does locking Aadhaar biometrics disable AEPS?
Not fully, but it prevents biometric misuse, making AEPS transactions impossible until unlocked.
3. How long does AEPS deactivation take?
Most banks take 1–3 working days after receiving a formal request.
4. Can AEPS fraud happen without biometric sharing?
Fraud typically requires biometric misuse or cloning. Locking your biometrics prevents this.
5. Is disabling AEPS reversible?
Yes. You can request reactivation anytime through your bank.
Conclusion
Learning how to disable AEPS is becoming increasingly important as digital payment systems expand across India. While AEPS is incredibly helpful for millions, it’s not necessary for everyone—especially users who rely on UPI, net banking, or mobile apps. By following the legitimate steps outlined above, you can safely opt out of AEPS and enhance your financial security.
Whether your goal is privacy, safety, or simply decluttering your banking features, disabling AEPS is a smart, proactive move when done correctly.
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