The Aadhaar biometric lock/unlock feature has achieved significant adoption among Indian residents, with users employing it more than 1.91 crore times, according to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). As reported by Mint, this security feature allows Aadhaar holders to prevent unauthorized biometric authentication using their fingerprints, iris and face data. The ministry highlighted this growing adoption in a press release dated 18 July, demonstrating increased awareness around securing personal identity information.
The Aadhaar App has crossed a significant milestone with more than 4 crore downloads, according to the MeitY press release. This substantial user base indicates growing adoption of digital identity management through the official Aadhaar application. The ministry's announcement on 18 July emphasized the growing popularity of the app among Indian residents seeking enhanced security for their biometric data.
According to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the Aadhaar App has emerged as a comprehensive digital platform that enables residents to access a range of Aadhaar-related services, including address updates, mobile number and email updates, biometric lock and unlock, and e-Aadhaar downloads, without visiting an Aadhaar enrolment centre. The app has facilitated 11.65 lakh address updates since its launch, allowing residents to conveniently keep their Aadhaar details current from their homes. It has also enabled nearly 49 lakh mobile number updates, helping users maintain accurate contact information linked to their Aadhaar.
The recently introduced email update feature, launched on July 1, has already seen strong adoption, with around 12.5 lakh email addresses added or updated through the app. The service, which earlier cost ₹75, has been made free until December 31, 2026, when accessed through the Aadhaar App. This feature expansion demonstrates UIDAI's commitment to providing comprehensive digital identity services at reduced costs.
The biometric lock feature enables Aadhaar cardholders to lock their fingerprint, iris and facial authentication linked to their Aadhaar number. As reported by Mint, once biometrics are locked, they cannot be used for Aadhaar authentication until the user unlocks them. This security mechanism means that no individual or organization can complete biometric Aadhaar authentication using the locked biometrics, adding an extra layer of protection against misuse. The facility is available only to Aadhaar holders whose mobile number is registered with Aadhaar.
Biometric authentication is commonly used for identity verification while availing various Aadhaar-enabled services. As reported by Mint, locking biometrics ensures that fingerprint, iris or facial authentication cannot be used without the Aadhaar holder's consent. The MeitY press release emphasized that the Aadhaar App provides Aadhaar number holders with a convenient, secure and privacy-focused way to show, share and verify their identity digitally. The platform is playing an important role in improving ease of living while supporting the objectives of the Digital India Mission and the vision of Viksit Bharat.
