Full Breakdown
Identity Theft Raises Concerns Over Uber's Driver Vetting Process
2/12/2026, 11:19:39 AM
Overview of the Incident
A San Fernando Valley couple, Vahik Tatoosi and Anna Kojoyan, reported that an Uber driver allegedly stole Tatoosi's identity to register as a driver for the ride-sharing platform. The couple first discovered the issue in September 2025 when they received a welcome packet from Uber addressed to Tatoosi, despite him never having signed up to drive for the company. Their concerns intensified when they received IRS 1099 tax forms indicating that someone had earned nearly $7,000 using Tatoosi's name and Social Security number.
Public Safety Implications
Kojoyan expressed that the situation extends beyond identity theft, raising significant public safety concerns. She noted, "People, young women, kids, teenagers, they use Uber thinking that all drivers are background-checked. But apparently you never know who's picking you up." This sentiment highlights the potential risks associated with the current vetting processes for Uber drivers.
Background on Uber's Vetting Process
Uber claims to utilize third-party vendors to conduct background checks on prospective drivers, requiring them to submit personal information, including Social Security numbers and government-issued identification. However, the couple's experience has prompted questions about the effectiveness of these measures. Eva Velasquez, president and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center, categorized Tatoosi's case as employment identity theft, a growing issue in the digital age where personal data is increasingly vulnerable.
Broader Context of Employment Identity Theft
Tatoosi's case is not isolated; it reflects a broader trend of employment identity theft facilitated by remote and app-based work environments. In 2024, a Kern County man filed a lawsuit against Uber after receiving a tax form indicating $53,000 in earnings from the company, despite never having worked for it. This lawsuit underscored claims that Uber "routinely allows individuals to work for it as a rideshare or delivery driver using the personal information of other individuals."
Official Statements from Uber
In response to the allegations, Uber stated that they have escalated Tatoosi's complaint and emphasized their commitment to investing in anti-fraud systems. The company acknowledged that "the methods of scamming and defrauding companies are constantly evolving" and reiterated their multi-level fraud detection process, which includes annual re-screening of drivers.
Recommendations for Victims
The Identity Theft Resource Center advises individuals to obtain an IRS identity protection PIN, create a "my Social Security" account, and monitor their information regularly. Tatoosi and Kojoyan have taken steps to protect themselves by freezing their credit and enrolling in a credit-monitoring service. They are currently working with the IRS to resolve the fraudulent income reported under Tatoosi's name, as they are now expected to address tax obligations for income they did not earn.
Conclusion
The case of Vahik Tatoosi and Anna Kojoyan highlights significant vulnerabilities in the identity verification processes of ride-sharing platforms like Uber. As incidents of employment identity theft rise, both consumers and companies must remain vigilant in protecting personal information and ensuring public safety.
