Uber introduces Real-Time ID check in Kenya
Riding-hailing app, Uber, on Thursday announced the roll-out of an intelligent new safety feature, Real-Time ID check in Kenya.
The new innovation update is an intelligent new safety feature that periodically prompts drivers to share a selfie before going online to help ensure that the driver using the app matches the account Uber has on file.
Speaking while introducing the new feature, Loic Amado, General Manager of Uber in East Africa said:
“We’re constantly developing and testing new solutions to enhance security for both drivers and riders. Real-time ID check is the result of comprehensive research and testing, and the example of proactive technology that solves potential challenges before they occur.
“The check protects drivers driving with Uber from fraud, theft and risks to their account being compromised. It also assures riders that when they are picked up, the right person is behind the wheel.”
The new safety feature will therefore ensure the drivers are the only ones who can access their accounts while at the same time protecting riders by building another layer of accountability into the app to ensure the right person is behind the wheel.
Currently, the feature is being rolled-out to drivers in Kenya in phases so not all drivers will see this feature right away. The average verification time is just a few seconds.
Alongside Kenya, Real-Time ID has also been rolled out in South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana this follows a global roll out that was launched in the US.