Uber is now asking riders to get verified as a safety measure for drivers

Uber is introducing a new rider verification feature to improve driver safety and reduce fraud. All customers' personal information will be automatically cross-checked against third-party databases, with an option to upload government-issued ID for additional verification. Verified riders will receive a special badge visible to drivers. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi revealed that about 15,000 rider accounts have been banned for using fake names. The company hopes this change will give drivers more confidence and support, as pilot tests showed verified riders tend to give higher ratings and receive fewer complaints.