Queensland's peak taxi body has upped the ante in its battle against ride-sharing app Uber, with an extensive media campaign about to kick off.

The Taxi Council of Queensland has warned would-be Uber passengers they were putting their lives at risk by using the popular app.

A user scans for an available vehicle using Uber. Credit:Chris Ratcliffe

"Cashed up companies like Uber use warm and fuzzy words but in reality they are about one thing – making money by exploiting uninsured drivers, exposing the public to risks and lying about their operations," TCQ chief executive Benjamin Wash said.

The Queensland government reversed its initial tolerance for the "ride-sharing" company in July and issued Uber with a cease and desist order.