Uber quietly begins testing fingerprint background checks

Uber has quietly started testing the fingerprinting process on some of its drivers. Uber background checks have been a controversial issue since day one. Five hundred Los Angeles-based Uber drivers were invited to undergo fingerprint background checks; it has not been determined whether fingerprint screening has been tested in other markets, or whether the fingerprinting program will expand at this time. Background checking comes up frequently with ride-sharing services such as Uber, as several allegations of assault have surfaced since the company first gained popularity. In fact, the company claimed to have the “safest rides on the road” at one point, despite concerns that, by forgoing fingerprint checks, it was easy for people to apply to be Uber drivers under someone else’s identity. Last December, Uber released a “Commitment to Safety” post on its website that indicated that the company would be looking into biometric and voice safety options for driver screening. Uber does utilize other kinds of background checks outside fingerprinting; however, the company has found itself the target of some lawsuits — including with the state of California — over misleading background check information that was provided to the public. Taxi services utilize fingerprint background checks when hiring drivers.]]>