Uber introduces verified rider badge to improve safety for drivers and passengers [Video]

Uber is rolling out a new feature that it says will help keep both riders and drivers safer.Starting Wednesday, Uber drivers will see when a rider is “verified.” The company says the verification involved cross-checking a rider’s account information given at signup, like a name or phone number, against third-party data.If Uber can’t validate that information, users can choose to upload a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport. The company says it may also ask for a selfie. Once information is verified, riders will receive a blue “verified” badge. Uber says the design came in response to driver feedback about wanting to know more about who is getting in their car. The new feature is optional. If users decide not to provide an ID and selfie, you won’t get a verified badge, but you’ll still be able to take rides with Uber.However, because drivers will see …