Uber employees caught spying on exes and celebrities

Following Uber’s most recent update, court documents have confirmed that the data it collects is for more than making a better rider experience. But, in fact, Uber employees are using the information to stalk high-profile users and even their exes.

In an October court filing, Uber’s former forensic investigator, Samuel “Ward” Spangenberg says the company fails to adequately protect personal data collected when a customer requests a ride.

Spangenberg testified that:

Uber’s lack of security regarding its customer data was resulting in Uber employees being able to track high profile politicians, celebrities, and even personal acquaintances of Uber employees, including ex-boyfriends/girlfriends, and ex-spouses…

According to The Huffington Post, Uber’s Chief Information Security Officer John Flynn disputed most of Spangenberg’s allegations in an internal email to employees:

Much of the information is out of date and doesn’t accurately reflect the state of our practices today.

Uber insists that its strict policies prohibit employees from accessing users’ trip information. However, five former Uber security professionals have come forward, confirming that the company continues to allow access to this data.

According to these sources, Uber’s policy relies on the honor system where employees agree not to abuse their access. But the company doesn’t actually prevent employees from acquiring private information.

This isn’t the first time Uber has been in hot-water for tracking customers. In 2014, executives were fined $20,000 for using the company’s “God View” feature to follow customers in real time – and without their permission.