Are Ubers allowed to record you?
Yes. Uber drivers are allowed to record passengers without their explicit consent for safety purposes in certain jurisdictions. Some states have laws that prohibit people from making recordings of others without their knowledge or permission and may require the consent of all parties involved in a conversation, transaction, or meeting before it is legally recorded.
Some jurisdictions may only allow recordings with the consent of one party involved in the conversation. In some states, both parties must consent to the recording of a conversation. Other states do not require either party’s consent to record a conversation. If the recording is made without consent, a third party may be held liable for any damage intended or caused by the recording.
State laws may vary, and it is important to check your local jurisdiction for any specific requirements regarding the legality of in-car recordings.
How does Uber record?
Uber uses different ways to record passengers. The most common way is through the app itself. When a passenger activates the app, it will connect with a live feed of their camera, which will stream directly onto their map.
The second way Uber drivers record riders are through their dashboard cameras. Dashboard cameras, which are often included in cars, automatically record when they are on.
Thirdly, Uber records through the driver’s phone. If the driver turns on the Uber app and is connected to a live video feed from their dashboard camera, the app will record anything being said during that call.
Why does Uber record?
1. Safety of Passengers
Uber drivers have the right to record passengers without their consent in some states. In the case of a driver recording the passenger without their consent, criminal charges may be filed. Recording a person without their consent can be detrimental for the passenger and usher an uncomfortable situation. In recent times, Uber was investigated by authorities for these types of incidents.
2. Safety of Drivers
Uber also records passengers for the safety of their drivers. Drivers can get into situations where they are in danger and need protection, particularly against intoxicated and aggressive passengers. Recording these situations allows them to help protect their drivers by quickly reporting these scenarios to their 24/7 support team or law enforcement if necessary.
3. Law Enforcement And Officials
In some situations, Uber may be required by law to record its drivers or passengers. Uber, however, does not release information on which laws allow them to record. It is assumed that general privacy issues are involved in many of these cases, including child exploitation and prostitution. This is a sensitive topic for Uber as they have been a target of litigation from sorts of entities over the years. Investigations have occurred between 2015-2017, entailing two class-action lawsuits filed against the company regarding their use of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs).
Conclusion
The safety of passengers and drivers is a top priority for Uber, and recording both parties helps them achieve that goal. Uber can record passengers through their app, dashboard cameras, and phones. The recording also helps ensure the safety of drivers through law enforcement officials and investigations. Although recording is important for Uber, it is generally against the laws of certain states without the consent of both parties in question.