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What to do if…
you are waiting for a rideshare and a different car stops and tells you it’s for you

Short answer

Don’t get in. Step back to a safer spot and only enter a vehicle that matches your app’s details (especially the registration/number plate and driver).

Do not do these things

  • Don’t “just get in to be polite” or because they sound confident.
  • Don’t move closer to the car to argue or “check inside” if you feel uneasy.
  • Don’t confirm personal details to a stranger (your name, where you’re going, where you live).
  • Don’t accept “I’m your driver but the app is wrong / I changed cars / my mate is driving” as a reason to ride.
  • Don’t cancel in-app because they tell you to, or agree to cash/off-app payment.
  • Don’t share any one-time codes or PINs sent to your phone with anyone outside the normal in-app pickup check.

What to do now

  1. Create distance first. Take several steps back and move toward a well-lit, busier place (inside a shop/venue lobby if you can).
  2. Check your app before you engage. Compare:
    • Vehicle registration/number plate
    • Make/model/colour
    • Driver name + photo If any key detail doesn’t match, treat it as not your ride.
  3. Use a “no-details” response. If you speak at all: “No thanks.” Avoid giving your name or destination.
  4. Verify safely if you’re unsure (without approaching the car).
    • Message or call the driver through the app.
    • If your app offers a PIN/verification code, use it. If you can’t verify from your phone, don’t get in.
  5. Move the pickup to somewhere safer. Cancel and rebook to a pickup point that’s:
    • well-lit and clearly identifiable (front entrance, marked bay)
    • near staff/security if available
  6. If the car seems to be targeting you (won’t leave, circles, you feel threatened):
    • Go inside and ask staff to stay with you.
    • Call 999 if you feel in immediate danger. If it’s not an emergency, you can call 101 when you’re safe.
  7. Record details for later (only if safe). Note the registration/plate, location, and time (a quick phone note is enough). Don’t take risks to get a photo.
  8. If you’re in London: don’t accept any private hire/minicab offered on the street. Private hire vehicles must be pre-booked; only licensed taxis can be hailed. If you think you’ve seen an unlicensed vehicle/driver/operator, report it when safe (local council, or TfL in London).

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether to make a formal report.
  • You do not need to confront the driver or “prove” they’re wrong.
  • You do not need to figure out whether it was a scam or an honest mistake before getting yourself home safely.

Important reassurance

It’s common to freeze or second-guess yourself when someone confidently claims they’re “your ride.” Refusing a car that doesn’t match your app is a normal safety step. You’re allowed to prioritise safety over politeness.

Scope note

These are first steps for the next few minutes: creating distance, verifying safely, and getting a legitimate ride. Later follow-up (complaints, formal reporting, changing account/security settings) can happen once you’re calm and safe.

Important note

This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you believe you’re in immediate danger, call 999.

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