What is Aadhaar locking? How one can lock/unlock their UID? Know here

A person is most concerned about the security and privacy of their data. Therefore, UIDAI provides a system for locking and unlocking Aadhaar numbers (UID) to increase the security of Aadhaar number and provide the individual more control. Residents can lock their UID (Unique Identification Number) using the UIDAI website (www.myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in) or the mAadhaar app. 

If a person chooses this option, they will not be able to undertake any type of authentication using UID, UID Token, and VID (virtual ID) for biometrics, demographics, and OTP modalities. 

Here is how one can lock and unlock their UID:

To lock a UID, the person must have a 16-digit VID number. If he/she does not already have a VID, they can obtain one using SMS or the UIDAI website (www.myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in). 

Through SMS, one can send SMS like GVID space containing the final four or eight digits of the UID, and SMS that to 1947. Example: GVID 1234. 

Individuals can also visit the UIDAI website (https://resident.uidai.gov.in/aadhaar-lockunlock). Then, from the My Aadhaar page, select Aadhaar Lock & Unlock services. After this, select the UID Lock Radio Button, input your UID number, full name, and pin code as described in the most recent details, and enter your security code. Click Send OTP (one-time password) or Select TOTP (time-based one-time password) and then submit. Your user ID will be successfully locked.

How to unlock your UID?

If a person wishes to unlock his or her UID, they can do so by entering the most recent VID on the UIDAI website or using the mAadhaar app. 

Through SMS also, a person can unlock their UID. For that, one can send RVID Space last 4 or 8 digit of UID and then send SMS to 1947 to unlock their UID. For example- RVID 1234

Or to unlock UID, visit the UIDAI website https://resident.uidai.gov.in/aadhaar-lockunlock, select Unlock radio button, Enter the Latest VID and security Code and click on send OTP or select TOTP and click on Submit. Your UID will be unlocked successfully.

A person may also use Aadhaar lock or unlock service through mAadhaar app. 

What if someone forgets their VID and wants to lock UID?

After Locking UID if a person forgets VID, he or she can use SMS service to retrieve 16-digit VID and then they will receive VID on his/her register mobile number. 

Send SMS to 1947 from Aadhaar Register mobile number, RVID Space last 4 or 8-digit of UID. For example: RVID 1234