Police are warning drivers to be very careful who they give a lift to as they could be hit with a £2,500 fine.
Drivers could invalidate their insurance and be breaking the law according to police.
The problem comes when you accept money for giving someone a lift - which could see you branded as an unlicensed taxi service - reports Hull Live.
While you can take a little money to cover the cost of fuel - if you take any more than that you could get into trouble.
Police could launch a prosecution seeing you fined up to £2,500.
The Bournemouth Echo recently reported that the area has seen two Facebook groups offering illegal lifts around town.
A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "Before offering a lift in exchange for money, you should speak to your insurance company as this could invalidate your insurance and may result in your vehicle being seized by police, a fixed penalty or prosecution resulting in a fine, points on your licence or disqualification from driving.”
Lift sharing sites and pages often say they are not designed for making profits, but a BBC investigation found some people making £50 a week from offering lifts in their cars.
If you are taking lifts from strangers - you are also opening yourself to a lot of potential danger and journeys will not be covered by insurance.
Dan Hutson Head of Motor at comparethemarket.com said: “By offering friends and family a lift you may think you’re doing a good deed but by accepting payments for the drive you might actually be invalidating your insurance premium.
“Although car sharing is now often included on standard motor policies, you should only accept a contribution for fuel and other running costs.
“It is important to remember that by asking for a charge that may lead to ‘profit’, it may be considered that you are operating as a passenger service for hire and profit."
Motorists are urged to check with their car insurance provider before taking part in an activity which could lead to a policy being invalidated.
Breaking the terms of your contract will mean insurance providers will refuse to pay out on claims after a car crash.
It could also mean motorists are prevented from getting out another policy or will face higher premiums as they are seen as a greater risk.
