Uber scam texts and calls: how to spot a fake Uber message
Quick answer
Uber says it will never call, text or email to ask for your password, verification code or banking details. A message that does is a scam. End the call, don't click, and check your account through the Uber app or help.uber.com. Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Comes by
- Text, Phone call, Email
- Pretends to be
- Uber
- Last updated
How it works
Scammers pretend to be Uber, usually Uber support, and contact as many people as they can in the hope that a few respond. Uber says the goal is to get personal details such as banking information, or to talk you into changing your account.
The FTC describes a version aimed at delivery drivers and restaurants: the impersonator asks for a verification code sent to your email or phone. Sharing a code lets them pretend to be you and take over your account.
They may also ask you to add someone else's card to your account. Uber's advice is never to do that.
Red flags
- A call, text or email from 'Uber' asking for your password or a verification code
- A request for banking details or card numbers
- Being asked to add another person's card to your account
- A link to a login page whose address isn't an Uber address
- Pressure to act now or lose your account or earnings
Example message
This is Uber Support. We noticed a problem with your account. To keep it from being suspended, reply with the 6-digit code we just sent you, or sign in at [link].
What to do
- 1
Don't reply, click or share a code
Verification codes are for you only. Uber says it will never ask for one by call, text or email.
- 2
End the call and check through Uber
Open the Uber app or go to help.uber.com yourself, and ask about the contact there.
- 3
If you shared a code or password, secure the account
Reset your Uber password to one you don't use anywhere else, and check your account details for changes.
- 4
Watch your bank and card statements
If you gave banking or card details, call your bank on the number on your card and ask them to stop or reverse any charges.
- 5
Report the message
Report it to the FTC, and forward spam texts to 7726 (SPAM) if your carrier supports it.
Report it
Check if your details are exposed with Serus
Scammers find your number and address on data brokers and people-search sites. Serus removes them.
Why you got it
Scammers need your phone number or email, and often your name, before they can send a message that looks personal. They buy that from data brokers and people-search sites, or take it from data breaches. Impersonators target Uber drivers and riders because the account is tied to a phone number and a payment method. Serus finds the brokers that list your details where you live and sends the removal requests, and it alerts you when your email or phone number turns up in a breach, so fewer scammers can reach you.
Common Uber scams
Frequently asked
Will Uber text me for a verification code?
Uber sends codes to your own phone when you sign in or change a number, but it says it will never call, text or email to ask you to hand one over.
Is Uber a scam?
No. Scammers pretend to be Uber. The fake messages are not from the company.
I gave someone my code. What should I do?
Reset your password, check your account for changes and watch your payment methods. Contact Uber through the app or help.uber.com.
How do I check if a message is really from Uber?
Don't use the message. Open the Uber app or help.uber.com yourself.
Sources
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