This helps Uber to ensure in real time that the driver-partner using the app corresponds with the account it has on file.

On the other hand, when the image does not match with the one on file, the account is temporarily blocked while Uber investigates the situation.

Real-time ID check assures riders that when they are picked up, the right person is behind the wheel.

This prevents fraud and protects drivers’ accounts from being compromised. An important part of safety is verifying that the driver-partner who is picking up riders is the same person who underwent Uber’s screening process.

Earlier this year, the intelligent new safety feature was introduced to driver-partners in South Africa, and based on its success, has been introduced to other markets in Africa.

Alon Lits, General Manager for Uber Sub-Saharan Africa explains, “During our pilot of Real-Time ID Check over the past few months in South Africa, we learned that more than 99% of drivers were verified”.

The General Manager added that, “This new feature makes sense as a simple action of taking a selfie is a language that people all over the world understand. This extra security feature does not inconvenience driver-partners, which is extremely important for us”.

Currently, the Uber network is available in over 475 cities in over seventy-five countries across six continents.

Uber is a network that commenced in 2009 currently tackling a challenge of reducing congestion and pollution in our cities by getting more people into fewer cars.

To request a ride, users must download the free application for Android, iPhone and Blackberry 7