An undercover investigation by the BBC has uncovered a black-market trade in delivery app accounts, allowing underage teenagers to work as riders for popular food delivery services.

The family of a 17-year-old who tragically died while working as a Deliveroo rider, despite the minimum age being 18, accuses the company of being "unaccountable."

The Home Office is urging major delivery platforms, including Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats, to reform policies that permit riders to lend their accounts to others, known as "substitution." The investigation reveals that this practice fosters an online trade in accounts, potentially involving minors.

While riders are required to undergo background checks and verify their age, once approved, they can lend their accounts to others to work on their behalf. The responsibility to ensure the substitute meets legal criteria falls on the original account holder.

The BBC investigation found evidence of social media accounts selling or renting accounts for major delivery apps. The government, expressing dissatisfaction with the situation, has called for a roundtable meeting with the three major delivery apps to address the issue.

Home Office Minister Robert Jenrick emphasizes the need for reform, calling the policy of substitution "perpetuating and enabling illegal working." He suggests that substitutes should be verified by the apps rather than the account owner.

Deliveroo states that it takes its responsibilities seriously and collaborates with relevant authorities. Just Eat emphasizes its high standards and criteria for couriers, noting that the courier account-holder is responsible for ensuring their substitute meets necessary standards. Uber Eats highlights its background check requirements and collaboration with the government to find a solution to the issue.

The investigation sheds light on a concerning loophole that enables underage individuals to work as riders, posing risks to their safety and well-being. Photo by Julia Justo, Wikimedia commons.