Bolt has introduced a new requirement for passengers in South Africa, mandating that they upload their ID numbers and selfies before booking a ride. The change, announced on Monday, is part of a broader push to improve safety and accountability on the platform. Drivers have long raised concerns about robberies, hijackings, and violent attacks, with groups like the National E-Hailers Federation of South Africa advocating for passenger verification similar to the checks drivers already undergo. Bolt says the move responds to these concerns, noting that drivers currently provide licences, permits, vehicle details, and personal information to operate on the app, while passengers remain anonymous. The update aligns with amendments to South Africa's National Land Transport Act (NLTA), which aims to formalise the ride-hailing sector and enforce stronger safety protocols for both drivers and riders. However, not all related measures have been welcomed—some drivers have objected to mandatory vehicle branding, arguing that clearly marked e-hailing cars may be more vulnerable to criminal targeting. The rollout positions Bolt as one of the first major platforms to implement such passenger verification, potentially setting a precedent for competitors. As the industry watches, the success of the policy may hinge on whether riders accept the trade-off between personal data and perceived safety. If users resist, other platforms may hesitate before following suit.
Bolt is treating passengers like suspects while drivers remain the primary targets of risk. The requirement for riders to submit ID and selfies does not address the core issue: that drivers face real physical danger even with verified passengers. If vehicle branding makes drivers more vulnerable, then increased passenger surveillance may only shift risk without reducing it. This move may set a precedent, but it also raises questions about where safety efforts should be focused.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
