Uber launches app update to ensure safety of riders

Uber has announced the launch of a new feature to help improve safety for riders using the app.

The new ‘Safety Checkup’ feature encourages riders to complete their safety profile by turning on and utilising tools such as Trusted Contacts, PIN Verification and RideCheck that are available in-app.

Norhen Ali, head of MENA Communications at Uber, said: “The safety of everyone who uses our app is a top priority, and we’re constantly improving our features.  The Safety Checkup feature will encourage riders to make use of the full range of safety tools offered on the app to ensure they are always as safe as possible.”

The new feature adds to a number of existing offerings such as GPS tracking, Personal Data Anonymization, the Emergency Button, 24/7 Support, Driver Screening, Speed Alerts, Driver Hour Limits and a number of safety measures introduced to address the threat of Covid-19.

Make sure to use:
Trusted Contacts: By which riders can choose their “Trusted Contacts” in the app and set reminders to share their ‘live’ journey with them, so family and friends can follow the trip and make sure the rider arrives at their destination safely.

PIN verification: To ensure that a rider is getting into the correct car, users can turn on PIN verification, where the driver must input the correct pin provided by the rider before the trip can start. The Safety Checkup feature allows riders to enable the PIN verification tool and choose the hours it is active.

RideCheck: This feature uses GPS technology to detect anomalies in trips, such as a long stopover or potential collision. If the app alerts us to such events, we’ll check in on the rider and driver and offer resources to get help.