Uber has recently introduced a new user verification method aimed at enhancing the safety of its drivers, raising significant privacy concerns among its users.
15,000 Accounts Suspended
The ride-sharing giant, which operates globally, found that many passengers were using fake or inappropriate names, leading to the suspension of over 15,000 accounts, according to El Economista.
In a bid to combat this issue, Uber's CEO, Dara Khosrowshahi, announced that users will now be required to verify their identities by providing personal details such as their name and phone number.
This information will be cross-checked against third-party databases. If the verification fails, users must submit an official ID along with a selfie to confirm their identity. Verified users will receive a blue badge in the app, indicating to drivers that their identity has been authenticated.
Could be Exposed
While Uber insists this change is crucial for protecting drivers from potential threats, critics argue that such measures infringe on user privacy.
Although the company claims that the information will be securely stored and that drivers will only access limited details — such as the rider’s name, badge, and trip information — the risk of data breaches remains a significant concern.
In the event of a hack, sensitive personal data could be exposed, placing users at even greater risk.
Furthermore, there are apprehensions that requiring extensive personal information for a ride-sharing service is an excessive measure.
