Uber verification program will give riders in 15 cities blue checks

Verified riders will get a blue checkmark that displays by their account in the Uber app, so drivers know they are who they say they are.

Uber is piloting a new rider verification process in 15 U.S. cities that it says will build trust and reliability for riders and drivers alike.

Verified riders will get a blue checkmark that displays by their account in the Uber app, which is meant to reassure Uber drivers that riders are who they say they are.

Uber says it will be "cross-checking a rider’s account information provided during signup against third-party databases," which may automatically grant verification to users if there's already enough information available.

Riders may otherwise be prompted to submit a government identification to make sure information is accurate.

Drivers will see the checkmark alongside the rider's first name and itinerary when they start a trip.