PC: Navi

Netizens are talking about a new social media scam in which scammers can use the loophole in the new Aadhaar-enabled payment system (AEPS) to zero out their bank account balance. In this scam, fraudsters can steal money from any bank account through access to fingerprint data, Aadhaar number, and bank name and they do not require OTP.

The worst part is that you don't even get an SMS notification when money is debited from your account. Cyber ​​cafes, photocopy shops, hotels, etc. are the major places where Aadhaar numbers can be stolen and then the scammers usually chase the victims to know the name of the bank.

To access the fingerprints of bank holders, scammers trace their land registry and other sources. This fingerprint data is imprinted on an artificial silicone thumb which is used to withdraw money using AePS.

How to stay safe from fraudsters:

To stay safe from scams, you need to lock your Aadhaar biometric data using the mAadhaar app or UIDAI website.

To disable AePS and lock your Aadhaar card biometric data, download the mAadhaar app and use the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar to sign up.

Verify your Aadhaar details and choose the option to lock your biometrics using the app. You can unlock biometrics using the app whenever you need.

PC: Paytm

mAadhaar App: How to download on Android smartphone or iPhone?

  • Open the Google Play Store on your mobile and install the mAadhaar app. For iPhones, use the App Store.
  • Give necessary permissions to download the mAadhaar app
  • Once mAadhaar is installed on your phone, set a password for the app.
  • Note that the password must contain 4 digits (all numbers).

Lock biometrics through mAadhaar app: Steps

  • Open the mAadhaar app, and log in using the user ID and password
  • Click on Profile.
  • Tap on the Menu option located at the top right corner of the app.
  • Click on 'Biometric Settings'.
  • Tick ​​the 'Enable Biometric Lock' option.
  • Tap on 'OK' and an OTP will be sent to the mobile number registered in Aadhaar
  • As soon as the OTP is entered, the biometric details will be locked immediately.