Uber and Lyft sent rideshare driver social security numbers to TikTok and Meta. Uber plans to invest over $10M into the upcoming U.S. IPO of a China-based autonomous driving provider. Uber launches XXL for passengers with extensive luggage. An influential investor drops Uber stock for Tesla. We break it all down for you.
Uber, Lyft Sent Rideshare Driver Social Security Numbers to TikTok and Meta
SOURCE: Northeastern Global News
Northeastern University researchers found that Uber and Lyft sent gig workers’ Social Security numbers to TikTok and Meta due to improper handling of tracking pixels on their websites. The companies claim the leak happened unintentionally.
- Uber and Lyft shared unsalted hashes of Social Security numbers with the social media companies through analytics tracking pixels, which inadvertently collected data from application forms.
- Tracking pixels are commonly used for web analytics and advertising but were misconfigured to capture private information submitted through web forms without applicants’ explicit consent or knowledge. These cookies captured activity during the driver application process on their desktop sites.
- Uber and Lyft quickly addressed and fixed these unintended exposures upon being notified by researchers.
Uber Plans To Invest Over $10 Million in Robotaxi Company’s U.S. IPO
SOURCE – Transport Topics
Uber is reportedly in discussions to invest over $10 million in Pony AI’s upcoming U.S. IPO, which continues the company’s recent streak of collaborations and investments in autonomous technology.
- Pony AI operates both in the U.S. and China, with prominent Chinese automakers also expressing interest in the IPO.
- The IPO, initially set for Nov. 21, has been delayed due to regulator concerns and has increased from an initial offering of 15 million shares to 20 million shares.
- Uber ended its own efforts to develop self-driving technology but has more recently embraced partnerships with self-driving companies. It offers Waymo and May Mobility vehicles on its platform and has also invested in Wayve.
Uber Launches XXL Option for Airport Travelers
SOURCE – Business Insider (Paywall free)
Uber has introduced a new XXL ride option specifically designed for airport travelers who need extra space to carry extensive luggage. This service, available at over 60 airports globally, offers guaranteed larger trunk space, addressing a common pain point for passengers who might be traveling as a small group.
- The UberXXL option differs from the existing UberXL by ensuring ample trunk space for luggage, while both can accommodate up to 6 passengers.
- Uber has been testing this ride type for about a year now, according to a Reddit thread from about a year ago.
- Drivers in the thread said vehicles need to have 27.4 cubic square feet of trunk space. Some vehicles that qualify for this vehicle type include the Suburban, Yukon XL, and Escalade.
Investor Brad Gerstner Swaps Uber for Tesla Stock
SOURCE – Teslarati
Brad Gerstner, an influential investor, said he replaced Uber shares with Tesla stock in his portfolio, citing his belief that Tesla has significant potential in the self-driving market. This decision follows the recent U.S. Presidential Election and reflects Gerstner’s belief in Tesla’s dominance in autonomous driving technology.
- Gerstner’s fund sold all Uber holdings post-election, reinvesting directly in Tesla, which has since seen a 36% increase in stock value.
- Gerstner believes 2025 will be a pivotal year for robotaxi development, with Tesla and Waymo positioned as leading players.
- He anticipates that the incoming Trump administration will push for regulatory changes favorable to robotaxi companies, which will eventually pose a challenge for Uber.
Seattle Investigates Uber Eats Over Driver Pay Violations
SOURCE – The Seattle Times
Seattle’s Office of Labor Standards has launched an investigation into Uber Eats following complaints that the company may be violating the city’s minimum wage ordinance for gig workers, which went into effect in January 2024.
- The ordinance requires companies to pay gig workers $0.44 per minute, $0.74 per mile, or a minimum of $5 per offer, along with other protections.
- This is while some business groups argue the ordinance has led to higher prices and fewer orders.
QUICK HITS
- According to insights from Bloomberg Second Measure, DoorDash holds 67% of the restaurant delivery market; Uber Eats has 23%, GrubHub at 8% and Postmates at 2%. – Second Measure
- President-elect Donald J. Trump’s new choice to be attorney general was previously a lobbyist for Uber. – NY Times
- A former rideshare driver in Chicago is suing Chicago, Uber, and Lyft over being deactivated, claiming that city regulations left her with no way to defend herself. – Fox 32 Chicago
Must Listen Or Watch RSG Content
Here are this week’s featured podcast episode and YouTube videos:
- RSG263: Justin Pappan on Renting a Fleet of Teslas! (EV Access)
- Lyft’s NEW Upfront Fare Info!
- Is Lyft Ready To Compete With Uber?
- Why Is UberEats HIDING Driver Info From Customers
- The Rideshare Guy en Español
- Make sure you Subscribe so you don’t miss out on future conversations and interviews!
