December 06, 2016
Uber’s latest app update includes a function for tracking users for several minutes after a ride has ended, even when the app isn’t open or active.
The purpose of the extended tracking, according to TechCrunch, is to collect data to be used for improvement, such as to track how often riders have to cross the street after being dropped off, and thus, to improve user safety.
App users will notice the tracking change as of the most recent Nov. 24 update.
While the change is transparent, and there is a way to opt out of the extended tracking, some users feel their privacy is at risk.
iOS notified me that @Uber has been tracking my location in the background, but I haven't used it in days. Only option is always or never... pic.twitter.com/xcFkdThZZB
— Jason Rabinowitz (@AirlineFlyer) November 28, 2016
.@Uber @Uber_RSA what kind of insidious ultimatum is this? Always or nothing location tracking? What if I only want to be tracked in-app? pic.twitter.com/ayFNeww0I3
— Burgundy🌹 (@rifvmo) November 28, 2016
