DoorDash is increasing the frequency of identity verifications for its drivers as part of a broader effort to combat unauthorized account sharing.
The company has faced growing scrutiny to ensure that its drivers are operating legally. For example, after receiving numerous complaints about reckless driving, DoorDash pledged to improve its ability to identify and remove dangerous drivers from the platform.
In cities like Boston and New York, authorities have reported instances where individuals with multiple traffic violations continued to make deliveries using accounts registered to others.
Starting Thursday, DoorDash announced that it would require some drivers to complete real-time identity checks immediately after finishing a delivery. This is a change from the previous system where drivers were only asked to re-verify their identities before or after a shift.
This new system has been rolled out in cities like Los Angeles, Denver, and Seattle, with plans for broader implementation next year.
Additionally, DoorDash has developed a machine learning system that flags potential unauthorized access, such as login anomalies or suspicious activity. If detected, drivers will be required to re-verify their identity before continuing deliveries.
In order to verify their identity, U.S. drivers must provide a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, and submit a selfie that matches the ID photo. Background checks, which require a Social Security number, are also mandatory.
DoorDash discovered that some drivers were circumventing the verification process by sharing accounts with others. In certain cases, unauthorized drivers paid account holders to use their credentials.
Some U.S. lawmakers have called for stricter enforcement, urging delivery platforms like DoorDash to prevent unauthorized users, including illegal immigrants, from operating on the platforms. Senators Marsha Blackburn, Mike Braun, and Ted Budd sent letters to delivery companies in April, emphasizing the risks associated with unverified drivers and the potential for exploitation.
While DoorDash has not disclosed how many drivers are using shared accounts, it has assured that its safeguards are effective.
As part of its efforts, the company began requiring drivers to submit selfie verifications every month last year.
Currently, over 150,000 drivers are asked to complete these checks each week, with those who fail to comply being removed from the platform.
