DETROIT – Uber launched a new rider verification pilot program in several cities across the U.S., including Detroit.
Riders who have been verified will receive a badge on their profile indicating that their identity has been verified.
Uber said the verified rider badge is meant to help ensure that riders are who they say they are. It is also meant to prevent fraud and help drivers and other Uber users feel more safe.
Starting Thursday, April 18, some riders and drivers will see the verification badge in their app. As the program expands, all riders and drivers will see the verification badge.
How the Uber rider verification process works
Uber will review account details like names and phone numbers and cross check them with a third-party database. If that information can be validated, then the rider will receive a verified badge without having to take any other steps.
If that information can’t be validated, then the rider can choose to upload a government-issued ID like a driver’s license, passport, or other official document to be verified.
Uber said that verification data is securely stored and identification documents are encrypted. Drivers will only see a rider’s first name, star rating, trip details, and the verified rider badge. Rider’s last names and phone numbers are not shared with drivers.
Once a rider has been verified, a badge will be added to their profile. Drivers will see the badge when they are deciding to accept a trip.
More information on the program can be found at Uber.com.