Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AEPS) fraud is a growing concern in India, with cybercriminals exploiting biometric data for unauthorized transactions. As (AEPS Fraud Protection Guide) digital payments become more common, securing your Aadhaar-linked biometrics is crucial. This guide explains how to lock and protect your Aadhaar biometrics from misuse, ensuring your financial and personal data remains secure.
Understanding AEPS and Aadhaar Biometric Fraud
The Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AEPS) allows users to make transactions using their Aadhaar number and biometric authentication (fingerprint/iris scan). While convenient, this system is vulnerable to fraud, where criminals:
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Use stolen biometric data to withdraw money.
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Clone fingerprints to authorize unauthorized transactions.
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Trick users into sharing OTPs or Aadhaar details.
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), AEPS fraud cases have surged, with victims losing lakhs due to biometric breaches.
How to Lock Aadhaar Biometrics to Prevent AEPS Fraud
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) provides a biometric locking feature to block unauthorized access. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Lock Your Biometrics via UIDAI Website
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Visit UIDAI’s official website.
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Go to “My Aadhaar” > “Aadhaar Services” > “Lock/Unlock Biometrics.”
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Enter your Aadhaar number and the security code.
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An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
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Enter the OTP and click “Enable Biometric Lock.”
Once locked, no one can use your fingerprints or iris scan for authentication.
Step 2: Temporarily Unlock Biometrics When Needed
If you need to use AEPS:
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Visit the same UIDAI portal.
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Select “Unlock Biometrics.”
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Authenticate with OTP.
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Your biometrics will be unlocked for 10 minutes, after which they auto-lock again.
Additional Ways to Protect Your Aadhaar from AEPS Fraud
1. Never Share Aadhaar OTP or Details
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Scammers impersonate bank officials or UIDAI representatives.
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UIDAI never asks for OTPs or biometrics over calls.
2. Regularly Check Aadhaar Authentication History
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Review all biometric and OTP-based transactions.
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Report suspicious activity immediately.
3. Use Virtual ID (VID) Instead of Aadhaar Number
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A 16-digit Virtual ID masks your Aadhaar number.
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Generate it via the UIDAI portal or mAadhaar app.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication for Bank Accounts
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Link your mobile number for SMS alerts on AEPS transactions.
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Use UPI PINs for added security.
Real-Life Cases of AEPS Fraud
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Case 1 (2023, Maharashtra): A gang cloned fingerprints from Aadhaar enrollment centers and siphoned ₹2.5 crore from victims’ accounts.
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Case 2 (2022, Delhi): Fraudsters tricked users into revealing Aadhaar-linked OTPs, draining ₹50 lakh via AEPS.
What to Do If You’re a Victim of AEPS Fraud?
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Immediately lock biometrics via UIDAI.
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Contact your bank to freeze suspicious transactions.
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File an FIR at the nearest cybercrime police station.
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Report to UIDAI at 1947 or help@uidai.gov.in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can someone withdraw money using my Aadhaar biometrics?
Yes, if your biometrics are unlocked, fraudsters can misuse them for AEPS transactions. Always keep them locked when not in use.
2. How do I know if my Aadhaar biometrics are locked?
Check on the UIDAI portal under “Lock/Unlock Biometrics.” If enabled, they are secure.
3. Is locking Aadhaar biometrics permanent?
No, you can temporarily unlock them for 10 minutes when needed.
4. What’s the difference between Aadhaar locking and biometric locking?
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Aadhaar locking blocks all authentication requests.
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Biometric locking only blocks fingerprint/iris scans but allows OTP-based verification.
Conclusion: Stay Vigilant Against AEPS Fraud
With rising biometric fraud cases, locking your Aadhaar biometrics is the best defense against unauthorized AEPS transactions. Follow UIDAI’s security measures, monitor authentication logs, and never share OTPs. Stay safe, stay secure!
Disclaimer
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