Uber announced on Wednesday the launch of real-time ID check, prompting drivers to share a selfie before going online to ensure the driver using the app matches the one in the account Uber has on file. With the new features, drivers are asked periodically to take a selfie in the Uber app before they accept rides. If the two photos do not match, the account is temporarily blocked while the company looks into the case. According to an Uber press release, this new feature protects drivers' accounts from being compromised and prevents fraud. It also protects riders by building another layer of accountability into the app to ensure the right person is behind the wheel. The statement added that Uber is constantly developing and testing new solutions to prevent and reduce risks and to augment the potential of its products and features to prevent issues before they even happen. Last year, Uber rolled out a series of safety features to reduce driving risks. The real-time ID Check is based on a security feature which uses Microsoft Cognitive Services to protect both riders and drivers. Moreover, real-time ID Check was launched last year in the US and the technology was successful in verifying more than 99% of drivers in the pilot programme. Abdellatif Waked, Uber Egypt's general manager, said that he is very proud that Uber's technology continues to enhance the safety of their thousands of partner drivers and riders across Egypt. He added that innovation does not stop at Uber, as their team continues to work hard to improve the app's products and features with new tools.
