An Illinois couple discovered an identity theft scam when they received tax documents showing a stranger had used their name to work as an Uber driver, generating significant financial liability.
A couple residing in Los Angeles filed a strong complaint after an unknown individual used the name of Vahik Tattoos to become an Uber driver without the couple's consent. They learned of the identity theft when they received a welcome package from Uber in September, which raised initial confusion and later deep concern as they had never registered on the app. The couple's laughter turned into worry as they realized the implications of someone else using their identity for potentially dangerous activities while creating records in their name.
In 2026, the situation escalated when they began receiving 1099 tax forms from the IRS, indicating that the impersonator had generated thousands of dollars in earnings under their name. This alarming news led the couple to recognize that the identity theft was not just a personal issue; it was also a broader concern regarding public safety. They highlighted the dangers of allowing unverified individuals to drive for ride-sharing apps, potentially putting vulnerable passengers at risk.
The incident raises critical questions about the security measures in place within ride-sharing platforms and the importance of protecting users' identities. The couple expressed their fears not only about the financial implications but also about the potential for misuse of their identity in other dangerous contexts. They are advocating for stricter regulations and better monitoring on platforms like Uber to prevent similar situations in the future and to enhance the safety of passengers who rely on these services daily.
