Two separate incidents have been brought to the attention of Driver Matty involving drivers working for Uber and Bolt who were unknowingly used to transport what later turned out to be stolen bank cards and PIN numbers.
The cases, one in Milton Keynes and another in Liverpool, ended very differently — but both highlight a growing risk for private hire drivers accepting parcel-style jobs.
Milton Keynes Bolt driver avoids potential fraud involvement
In the first case, a Bolt driver in Milton Keynes was reportedly booked to collect a letter from an elderly woman’s address and deliver it to a local shopping centre.
The job appeared straightforward. However, the driver became suspicious about the circumstances. Instead of simply transporting the envelope, he decided to check the contents. Inside, he discovered multiple bank cards with PIN numbers attached.
Recognising this as highly unusual and potentially criminal, the driver immediately cancelled the booking and took the envelope straight to the police.
By acting quickly, the driver avoided becoming involved in what appears to have been a bank card fraud attempt targeting a vulnerable person.
Liverpool Uber driver arrested after London delivery
In a separate case involving an Uber driver in Liverpool, the situation unfolded very differently.
The driver reportedly received a booking to collect a letter from a residential address. A woman came outside and handed him what appeared to be a simple envelope. The driver stated that there was no suspicious package, no backpack, and nothing to immediately raise concern — just a letter.
Believing it to be a normal courier-style job, he transported the envelope to London, following the destination provided within the Uber driver app. He did not open or inspect the contents.
Some time after completing the delivery, the driver was arrested and questioned. It was later discovered that the envelope allegedly contained bank cards with PIN numbers attached. The individuals who received the envelope reportedly went on to spend £2,800 using the cards.
Because the Uber driver had been the last person in possession of the cards before delivery, he was arrested and his taxi licence has been suspended while investigations continue.
Growing risk for ride-hailing drivers?
Both cases show how easily drivers can be used — knowingly or unknowingly — as part of fraud operations.
Scammers often target elderly victims, convincing them to hand over bank cards and PIN details. Using a private hire or ride-hailing driver to collect and deliver the envelope can add a layer of separation between the fraudsters and the victim.
For drivers, the consequences can be severe. Even if unaware of any wrongdoing, being the last person to handle stolen bank cards can result in arrest, questioning, and potential suspension of a taxi or private hire licence while investigations are carried out.
DM News Commentary
This is a serious warning for anyone working in private hire, whether through Uber, Bolt or any other operator.
If you are asked to transport a parcel, package or even just a letter — especially from a residential address — think carefully.
It may feel awkward, but it is far better to protect yourself. If something seems unusual:
- Ask the sender to open the envelope in front of you.
- Check what you are being asked to transport.
- Refuse the job if you are uncomfortable.
- Contact the police if you believe fraud may be taking place.
The Milton Keynes driver trusted his instincts and potentially prevented a crime. The Liverpool driver believed it was a normal job and is now facing serious consequences.
Drivers must remember: you are responsible for what you carry.
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