Nearly one in three millennial and Gen Z gig workers have rented their platform accounts to unverified users, according to a new report highlighting fraud risks in the gig economy.
The practice allows individuals who have not undergone background checks or identity verification to perform work under another person’s credentials on ride-sharing, delivery, caregiving and freelancing platforms.
Account rental rates vary by generation
TransUnion’s 2026 Gig Economy Worker Report found 25% of all gig workers have rented their accounts, while 20% have sold them outright. Millennials and Gen Z workers showed the highest participation rates at 31% for rentals, compared to 20% for Gen X and 7% for baby boomers.
The report surveyed gig workers across multiple platform types about their fraud experiences and account-sharing practices.
Identity verification gaps create risks
Less than half of gig workers surveyed—45%—believe gig platforms have effective identity verification processes in place.
“Allowing someone who has not been vetted and verified to provide services leaves consumers prone to fraud and physical danger, and it exposes the account owner and the platform to liability for any harm that occurs,” said Colleen Thiry, director of TransUnion’s gig economy business.
Workers also experience consumer fraud
The report found 34% of gig workers have been defrauded by consumers while working. Workers who experienced fraud expressed higher expectations for platforms to verify identities, devices, delivery addresses and biometrics during onboarding for both users and workers.
TransUnion develops identity verification and device risk solutions for gig platforms. The company operates in more than 30 countries with over 13,000 employees.
