Uber Text Message Scam - How to Protect Yourself

Types of Uber Text Scams

• The In-App "Driver" Phishing Scam: You order a ride normally. A scammer (sometimes using a compromised driver account or pretending to be one) contacts you via the app or phone. They claim a "new verification policy" requires you to read back a text code sent to your phone. If you give it to them, they hijack your account and drain your payment methods.
• The "Reply STOP" Premium-Rate Trick: You receive an unexpected text containing a fake code that says, "If this wasn't you, reply STOP to [number] to unsubscribe." Replying to these numbers can opt you into expensive, reverse-billed premium text services.
• The Account-Takeover Bot Flood: You suddenly get hit with a flurry of real Uber verification codes every few minutes. This usually means an automated bot is trying to brute-force its way into your account or use your phone number to set up fake profiles.

Immediate Action Plan

• Never share the code: Treat an Uber One-Time Password (OTP) like your bank PIN. No legitimate Uber employee or driver will ever ask for it.
• Secure your account: If you suspect someone is trying to break in, open the official app directly, go to Help, select "I think my account was hacked," and update your password immediately.
• Ignore the instructions: Do not click on external links embedded in text messages or reply to unfamiliar numbers demanding a "STOP" confirmation.
• Report the fraud: Take screenshots of the interaction and report the user or vehicle directly through the Uber Help Center.