Report: Thousands of criminals cleared to be Uber drivers

According to a new report on CNN, thousands of criminals have been cleared to drive for Uber despite their significant criminal history.

The report found Uber and Lyft “pushed back on government efforts to add other layers of scrutiny to the screening process” and “successfully fought off additional backgrounding requirements for drivers such as fingerprint scans or government screening” that some believe would help protect passengers.

“Uber has essentially regulated itself,” said a former Uber employee and in-house lobbyist, who requested anonymity citing concern over possible backlash from a current employer. The former employee added that in most states, lawmakers just inserted Uber’s language.

In statements to CNN, Uber and Lyft said their background checks are robust and fair. Uber acknowledged past mistakes in its screening process, but said, “More than 200,000 people failed our background check process in 2017 alone. While no background check is perfect, this is a process we take seriously and are committed to constantly improving.”

Once again, the difference between public expectations on screening standards and the ride-hailing companies’ standards have raised concerns about Uber and Lyft’s ability to effectively screen drivers and protect customers.

Some suggest that background checks are more crucial for independent contractors, such as ride-sharing drivers, because their status as non-employees gives employers less direct control over their work. By 2020, 40% of the workforce could be contingent — putting pressure on employers to ensure they vet this growing group appropriately.

You May Also Like

Check out these additional posts from Mind Your Business.

What are Continuous Background Checks?

Continuous background checks are a departure from traditional screening practices and are a paradigm shift in how companies vet their employees. Unlike the conventional one-and-done approach, continuous background checks involve regular, ongoing assessments of an individual’s criminal history and qualifications. Continuous background checks can be used at varying frequencies, ranging from daily to weekly or…
Read More

The Top Five Reasons to Run a Background Check

Running a background check is more than just a precaution; it’s a crucial step toward ensuring transparency, accountability, and peace of mind. Let’s explore why running various types of background checks is essential in various aspects of life.  Hiring the Right Candidates In the hiring process, running a background check is a cornerstone of pre-employment…
Read More

Timing is Everything: When to Run a Background Check

Mind Your Business is a leading provider of pre-employment background screening, equal employment opportunity support services, drug screening services, and other support services for both the private and federal sectors. MYB is a certified woman-owned small business. Running a background check has become a crucial step in various aspects of life. Whether you’re hiring potential…
Read More

Quality and Precise Results, On Time!

Let us know about your screening needs to get a custom quote. We work with businesses big and small as well as the government. Which means we have a package of solutions for your organization as well.