Senator Grace Poe on Thursday urged concerned government agencies to crackdown on the reported presence of fake ride-hailing app drivers as these might be used for other criminal intent, besides overcharging the commuting public.

“The scheme could victimize passengers through exorbitant fare charges that would be hard to contest once inside the vehicle. Worst, it threatens the safety and security of passengers as the ride offer could be used as cover for other criminal intent,” Poe, the chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services, said in a statement.

Poe issued the statement following reports on social media networks of private vehicle drivers posing as the booked ride of commuters and allegedly charging a much higher fee later on.

“The vigilance of our people must be matched with quick action from the police, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and other concerned agencies in putting in place measures to counter this illegal modus,” she said.

She also urged legitimate ride-hailing companies to work closely with authorities in getting rid of the fake ones that could impact on their business.

“Our weary commuters who are forced to shell out hard-earned money to get to their destination or to get home deserve to always feel safe and secure,” Poe said.

The LTFRB has issued a warning to the public to be vigilant about the ride-hailing scam. It also warned the people behind the scam and advised them to apply instead for a franchise if they want to earn money as a ride-hailing app driver. (PNA)