Uber's New Update Tracks Your Location Even After Your Ride's Over
There's no doubt that Uber has helped change the way we get around. Having the ability to seamlessly request a ride right at your fingertips is a game-changer, especially for the frequent traveler. But there's a new issue over user privacy with recent updates to the Uber app.
With Uber's revised policy, which you'll be forced to accept or decline after updating to the newest version of the app, the ridesharing service reserves the right to track your location — even when you're not using the app. The new policy allows Uber to track your location for up to five minutes after your ride ends, meaning data is collected on your whereabouts after you leave the car. There's no way to skip this unless you choose "Don't Allow," in which case you'll then have to manually input your pick-up location. You can resubmit your preferences at any time in your phone's settings.
The old policy allowed Uber to track your location only while the application was open, but with the new five-minute gap, the company says it hopes to improve its pick-ups, drop-offs, customer service and to increase security. However, there's no doubt that the increased time of tracking raises some pretty serious privacy concerns. For those who are looking to keep their location private after they close their app and their ride ends, luckily, this data collecting update from Uber looks to still be optional. If you don't already have an Uber account, you can sign up here to get your first ride free (up to $20) from TPG.
What do you think about Uber now tracking your location up to five minutes after your trip ends?
H/T: NPR