If you’ve been keeping up with delivery news, you may have seen an increased focus on how major delivery apps are verifying their drivers.
It isn’t about making your job harder. In fact, the new security checks are a positive step that can help create a safer, more secure, and fairer working environment for you. By understanding the changes, you can ensure you’re one step ahead and protect your hard-earned income.
What are the new rules for delivery drivers?
Major delivery platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat are introducing more frequent and advanced security measures. The goal is to make sure that the person logged into the app and completing a delivery is the same person who registered the account.
The main change you’ll notice is the increased use of facial verification technology. While you might have already come across some of these checks, they’re now becoming more common and sophisticated. You could be asked to take a quick, real-time photo of yourself through the app to confirm your identity. These checks are designed to be quick and simple, so you can get back on the road in minutes.
The new rules are a result of a voluntary agreement between these companies and the UK government. This is a positive step for the entire on-demand industry, helping to tackle fraud and supporting the existing community - right from the customer placing the order to the hard-working driver or rider who delivers it.
Why are these checks happening?
The delivery boom has brought about new challenges, particularly around fraudulent account sharing. When unverified drivers use someone else’s account, it creates risks for everyone. It can lead to unfair competition, and it puts other drivers, customers, and platforms at risk.
By stepping up verification, companies are creating a safer environment and ensuring that the only people working are those who have been properly vetted. When fraud is reduced, the system works better for everyone who is playing by the rules.
How to prepare for a facial verification check
The check itself is easy, but a little preparation can make it even smoother. Here are some quick tips to help you pass the check without any hassle:
- Find good light: Make sure your face is clearly visible. Natural light is best, but if it’s dark, use your phone’s flash to light up your face.
- Remove accessories: Don’t wear a hat or a helmet, sunglasses, or anything else that might block your face. The app needs a clear view of your face to confirm your identity.
- Keep still: The photo should be clear and in focus. Hold your phone steady and don’t move while the photo is being taken.
- Follow the prompts: The app will give you simple instructions on what to do. Follow them carefully, and you’ll be done in no time.
What about substitute accounts?
A “substitute” is a legitimate way for a registered driver to have someone else complete deliveries for them. This can be useful if you have multiple drivers or riders working for you, or if you simply need an extra pair of hands. However, these arrangements are now under the microscope as apps clamp down on misuse. These new checks help to ensure that even substitute drivers have the right to work and have been properly verified.
This is a good thing for you. It means that everyone on the road is held to the same high standards, reducing the risk of fraud and creating a more trustworthy industry.
If you’re also planning to share your vehicle with a fellow driver or rider, you’ll need to check whether your insurance allows multiple drivers.
Additional drivers are not currently covered on INSHUR courier and fast food delivery policies.
The bigger picture: protecting your livelihood
Ultimately, these new verification checks are a sign that the on-demand delivery industry is maturing. The focus is shifting to building a safer, more secure, and reliable ecosystem for everyone. For you, this means a more trustworthy platform to earn money from and less risk from unverified drivers.
However, just as platforms are making sure you’re properly verified, you need to make sure you’re properly protected by insurance.
Your personal car, scooter, or motorbike insurance may not be enough for delivery work, and you need a dedicated hire and reward policy.
INSHUR offers insurance built for on-demand drivers. Our policies are designed to be simple and flexible - get a quote online and be on the road in minutes.
Ready to protect your vehicle and get your hire and reward insurance?
Sources:
London Loves Business - Verification Checks
