Uber adds PIN verification security feature to ridesharing app

As of this week, Uber riders across Canada and in the United States will be able to set up a new PIN verification feature in their rideshare app.

The roll-out of the app’s addition began on January 7, and will be available to all users by the end of the week.

“We are constantly working and innovating to provide riders and drivers with the tools they need to help ensure a safe and reliable experience,” Sachin Kansal, Uber’s head of safety products, said in a release.

“This new feature will provide peace of mind that you are getting into the right vehicle.”

Uber

Riders can “opt-in” to the new PIN feature by navigating to the app’s settings and tapping “Verify Your Ride.”

From there, riders can choose to use the PIN verification feature on every trip or only during nighttime trips, between the hours of 9 pm and 6 am.

Once enabled, riders will receive a four-digit pin code in their app while the driver is en-route to the pickup location. Upon the driver’s arrival, the rider can verbally provide the PIN before getting into the vehicle. After the driver enters the correct PIN, the trip can commence.

When the feature is enabled, a trip will not be able to start until the correct PIN is entered into the driver’s app.

Uber

This feature was first unveiled by Uber at a product showcase event in San Francisco in September, and began piloting in seven cities last month.

“The PIN feature is a powerful option for riders that can also benefit drivers,” said Rebecca Payne, senior product manager at Uber, who helped develop this feature. “PIN Verification helps drivers make certain they have picked up the correct rider.”

Since its inception, Uber has provided riders with the car make and model, license plate, driver name, and photo.

This information should always be confirmed by riders before getting into the car.

Uber