Recently, it came to light that Uber has received multiple complaints of drivers presenting a fake fare screen to the riders.
It is a deceptive tactic where some drivers try to trick passengers into paying more than the actual fare.
A fake screen is a duplicated screen that looks very similar to the actual Uber app created with the aim of extorting excess fare from riders.
“The amount appearing on the fake bill on the screen is higher than the initial amount shown at the time of booking. What we understand is that after the trip ends, a screenshot of the higher fare is shown, which is then paid by the passenger. In one case, the amount displayed was almost double the [actual fare] amount, leading to this fake fare scam,” said an Uber executive.
Uber has received some such complaints from Bengaluru and Delhi. It is monitoring other cities as well. In the first reported case, a commuter in Bengaluru was charged almost twice the actual fare.
An Uber spokesperson said any attempt to alter bills or overcharge riders is against its guidelines.
Follow these 4 tips to avoid falling prey to fake screen fraud:
- Before you begin your trip, match the driver and vehicle details as shown in your Uber app
- Always check ‘Trip verified’ after sharing the four-digit PIN with the driver
- As soon as you reach your destination ask the driver to end the trip
- Pay the driver only the amount on your ‘Amount to pay’ or your pop-up push notification in your app
Do these things if users suspect any scam :
- If the fare displayed by your driver is higher than the fare shown to you, kindly ask them to refresh their app.
- Refresh your Uber app to view the amount due as indicated in the 'Amount to Pay' pop-up.
- If you are repeatedly asked by the driver to pay extra, ensure to retain all pertinent documents, including screenshots of the fare screen shown by the driver and payment receipts.
- Please report the driver via the Help section in the app. This will enable Uber to take necessary action.
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