COPS WARN. TRAVELERS BEWARE.
BROWARD COUNTY, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Drivers posing as official rideshare drivers are luring unsuspecting travelers into their vehicles at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. The Broward Sheriff’s Office says it’s a recipe for disaster — in addition to being illegal. BSO shared this advisory with BocaNewsNow.com:
People travel to South Florida for the sun, sand, great food and good times. The Broward Sheriff’s Office Airport District doesn’t want your next trip to be hijacked by an unlicensed rideshare solicitor.
BSO is offering a warning to all travelers who fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport – beware of unlicensed rideshare solicitors and follow key safety protocols.
“Christmas brings a surge of travelers and whenever the terminals get packed, the number of unlicensed rideshare drivers trying to blend in rises along with it. Let me be clear – operating as an unlicensed driver is illegal. We’re tightening our curbside oversight and increasing patrols to keep travelers safe and ensure everyone gets to their destination without being swindled,” BSO Airport District Captain Brian Montgomery said.
Travelers may also follow these safety guidelines to protect themselves from opportunistic unlicensed drivers:
• Trust the app, not the charm. If they approach you with a smile and a “Hey, I’m your driver” or “Are you going to Miami?” That’s a red flag. A real driver will ask you for your name. Always confirm the driver’s name, license plate and vehicle make through the rideshare app.
• Use only designated rideshare pick-up zones at FLL. FLL airport has rideshare pick-up and drop-off designated areas for your convenience and safety, you can find those locations HERE. Legitimate rideshare drivers know to meet at these locations. The rideshare vehicle should also show their company’s decals. Absence of proper identification is another red flag.
• Refuse rides from unauthorized rideshare solicitors. Riding with a stranger who refuses to follow the law is too risky. The driver may have a criminal background or may not even have a driver’s license. There are legal rideshare options like Uber, Lyft, taxis and limousines that allow for background information and tracking for their drivers. For more safety tips at FLL, please click HERE.
BSO encourages travelers to trust their instincts and prioritize personal safety. Always report suspicious activity. If it feels off, don’t get in the car. Remember, your safety is too important.
