Latest Uber update tracks users after ride ends

App surveillance is valuable to the Company, as they can use the location data to punish drivers not doing their job, for example.

Prior to the update, Uber only collected location information when users requested a ride and then during the trip itself; no data was collected after getting dropped off.

This new capability would technically allow the app to pinpoint users’ precise location as long as the app is running in the background. Meanwhile, Uber says the five minutes of location data collected after a trip has ended will provide data to ensure a customer was dropped off at an optimal spot-not on the wrong side of a busy street.

Uber users were also irritated by the move, with some taking to Twitter to claim they’d switch to rival Lyft. If you agree but later change your mind, Uber says it can be turned off by disabling location services through your device settings.

You will, however, need to manually enter your pick-up and drop-off addresses each time you use it. If you requested a vehicle and then went to check your email, the app no longer knew where you were.

The firm believe that the data will cut down on the frustrating back-and-forth often experienced by customers, as drivers try to ascertain exactly where their passengers are. Those five minutes post-ride are meant to help developers determine if there are drop-offs at incorrect locations.

Uber’s latest update lets the app track passenger locations even after drop off and after closing the phone app. However, the user can choose between the information sharing options.

Opsahl said EFF’s conversation with Uber is still ongoing, but he hopes “Uber sees that looking out for the customers first and considering their privacy needs and preferences is a better way to be a good company”.

What is Trip Related Location Data?

“They’re like strangers to each other, and you want both of them to be safe and protected”, Emory said. There is a fine line between improving services for your customers and collecting data and information about them.