On March 29, 2019, Samantha Josephson, a 21-year-old senior at the University of South Carolina, was kidnapped and murdered when she was targeted by an individual posing as a rideshare driver. The Josephsons set out to educate the world on the importance of rideshare safety so that no other family would have to suffer the same kind of loss. 

#WHATSMYNAME Foundation has already made progress in its efforts to educate the public on rideshare safety. In addition to fueling increased rideshare safety awareness through local, regional and national media outlets, the Foundation has partnered with colleges, businesses and municipalities across the country to create designated rideshare safety zones with signs including the “SAMI” safety tips featuring Stop, Ask, Match, Inform. The Josephsons frequently conduct rideshare safety presentations and seminars for organizations as well.

“What happened to Samantha Josephson was an unspeakable tragedy and something that no parent or family should go through,” said Tracey Breeden, global head of women’s safety, Uber. “We are honored to partner with the #WHATSMYNAME Foundation and the Josephson family to help continue raising awareness on rideshare safety. Together working alongside colleges and cities, while leveraging education and technology, we can all help create safer communities.”

Since 2017, Uber has been focused on building technology and investing in safety features to help provide riders and drivers with the tools they need to help ensure a safe and reliable experience. Last year, the company rolled out Verify Your Ride, which provides riders a unique 4-digit PIN that they can verbally provide to their driver who will have to enter it into their own app in order to start the trip. The feature provides an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for the rider and driver that the rider is getting into the correct vehicle.

For additional information, please visit www.whatsmyname.org.