Uber says it has introduced rider selfies for new cash riders without a valid credit card on file as a new safety feature for Nigeria. This is another way of showing that the ride-hailing prioritises driver safety. The technology works by prompting riders to share a selfie before requesting their first cash trip. The selfie has to be of one person, with no face coverings like sunglasses or masks, and not be a photo of a photo
This new verification method will work alongside another rider verification method which confirms a rider’s identity by linking to their Facebook account. This all takes place within a few seconds.
“Safety is important to Uber—whether a person is in the backseat or behind the wheel. As part of this commitment, we are always investing in new ways to enhance safety on the Uber app.” In the last few years, Uber has launched Real-time ID check, Share My Trip, Verify My Trip, Check Your Ride as well as 24/7 incident support,” says Tope Akinwumi, Country Manager, Uber Nigeria.
Technology apps like Uber have improved safety by creating accountability and transparency where previously there was none. This is because technology makes it possible to focus on safety for driver-partners and riders before, during, and after every trip.
“We are committed to safety and are working to build a better experience for both riders and drivers. Which is why we’re focused on your safety, from setting new standards to developing technology with the goal of reducing incidents,” adds Akinwumi.
Uber is available in over 52 cities in Sub-Saharan Africa (Cape Town, Durban, Joburg, Pretoria, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), East London, Polokwane, Cape West Coast, Worcester, Emalahleni / Middelburg, Garden Route, Rustenburg, Potchefstroom, Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit), Newcastle, Mthatha, Thohoyandou, Upington, Margate, Richards Bay, Welkom, Phuthaditjhaba, Ermelo, Queenstown, Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Lagos, Abuja, Benin City, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Abidjan, Kampala, Accra, Kumasi and Dar es Salaam). Overall, the Uber network is available in over 10 000 cities in over 65 countries
