New 'verification scam' targets rideshare users on Uber

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Rideshare users are being warned of a new scam, targeting riders after they order a ride in the Uber app.

The way it works is riders will receive a phone call that appears to be coming from Uber , or even the driver, through the app. The caller will ask the rider to confirm account information and a verification code sent to their account, explaining this is part of a new “verification policy."

If a rider gives this information, it gives the scammer access to the account, including their payment information.

“It is absolutely believable because some of the messages will even have a picture of your driver,” said Lee Anne Lanigan, director of investigations at the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio.

On its website , Uber says it “will never call, text, or email y