Uber launches new rider verification program in Chicago, 11 other cities
CHICAGO — Chicago is one of 12 city’s where Uber is testing a safety feature for drivers.
The new rider verification safety intiative, which launches Thursday, aims to give drivers additional peace of mind when picking up riders.
According to Uber, verified riders will receive a blue checkmark badge that drivers will see to make them aware the rider has undergone additional verification steps. Drivers can use it to decide if they want to accept a trip.
Uber says users will get an email and an in-app message letting them know about the pilot.
Here’s how the verification process works:
Uber reviews account details such as names and verified phone numbers, cross-checking these with trusted third-party databases.
Many rider accounts will become verified using account details, with no additional action needed from riders.
Riders will also have the option to upload government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or other official documentation, to become verified.
Once verified, a “Verified” badge will be added to the rider’s profile, visible to them on their “Account” page.
Drivers will see the verified rider badge when deciding to accept a trip, adding another tool that empowers them to make an informed decision.
Nolberto Casas, a driver and member of the Chicago Gig Alliance, said there’s still more work to do.
“Over the past few months, it’s been very scary,” Casas said.
During his five years as a rideshare driver, Cases said he’s experienced some close calls and tragically lost a friend.
“One of our close friends, Mohammed Al Hijoj, he was killed in action on Dec. 3 that’s put a big scare into our driver community,” Casas said.
Casas is the spokesperson for the Chicago Gig Alliance, an organization hoping to get a law passed though city council to ensure better wages and more security measures are in place for rideshare drivers.
“Our rideshare bill is currently in workforce development,” Casas said.
Heather Childs, the chief trust a security officer at Uber, said it’s an extra check that Uber takes for riders to ensure that they are who they say they are.
“It’s very easy,” Childs said. “You just take a picture of your ID. We then verify the ID and give the rider a verified check mark. The driver is then able to see that the rider is verified when they get an alert asking them if they want to take a ride or not.”
Nolberto said the new program is a small step forward towards improved safety for Uber drivers.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
