Uber Warns of Scammers With Clipboards, Homemade Signs at NYC Airports

Ride-hailing service Uber is warning New York City travelers about fake drivers approaching people at the city’s two airports with clipboards and homemade signs for the company.

The company said that that fraudsters have been collecting cash and credit card information from people leaving LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports before travelers use the app to request a ride. Uber said the practice leaves riders open to price gouging and identity theft a

"If you get in an Uber or a taxi or any car service that is legal and licensed by the city, you know that the driver has been vetted," said Uber spokesman Josh Mohrer.

The company conducted a 15-day review of the situation at the two airports and found that the scammers are approaching as many as 2,300 travelers each week. Uber has asked the Port Authority to look into the issue, but the agency hasn’t yet responded.

Edith, a traveler who landed at LaGuardia on Monday, said she was stopped by one of the people claiming to be with Uber. She said she turned the man down.

"Someone came over and said ‘Are you ready for an Uber?’ but I said no," she said.

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