Uber Fined 825 Million Euros for Automatically Blocking Drivers

    The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) has fined Uber 825 million euros (about $966 million) over the blocking of drivers' accounts by automated systems. According to Reuters, this is the second-largest fine ever imposed under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The investigation focused primarily on cases in which Uber drivers' accounts were automatically deactivated without human intervention. The Dutch regulator believes that such decisions cannot be left solely to algorithms because they have serious consequences for drivers. The authority's deputy chair, Monique Verdier, said Uber had committed serious violations in this matter.

“A computer should not make decisions with such major consequences on its own.”

    According to the regulator, some drivers' accounts were permanently deactivated without a separate human review. Uber disputes these claims. The company says most driver account suspensions are temporary and that no driver is permanently removed from the platform without human review. Uber also emphasizes that drivers can appeal decisions. The company said it considers the 825 million-euro fine disproportionate and will appeal the decision.    The issue dates back several years. Brahim Ben Ali, a former Uber driver in France, contacted other drivers who had experienced similar problems after his account was deactivated in 2019. He collected statements from a total of 170 Uber drivers and initiated the complaint process. The drivers received support from PersonalData.io, a Swiss nonprofit organization working in the field of digital rights. The organization helped investigate the data and mechanisms used to deactivate the drivers' accounts.