The Dutch Data Protection Authority has fined Uber a record-breaking €825 million for its handling of automated driver suspensions. This makes it the second-largest penalty issued under the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, following a similar fine imposed on Booking.com last year. According to reports, Uber had suspended thousands of its drivers without adequate notice or explanation, leading to widespread criticism and calls for greater transparency.
The authority found that Uber failed to comply with EU data protection rules by not providing sufficient information to affected drivers about the suspension and not allowing them to contest the decision in a timely manner. The company also failed to establish an adequate system for handling driver suspensions, which led to many drivers being suspended without warning or explanation. As a result, the authority is imposing a significant fine to compensate the affected drivers.
The fine marks a significant escalation in Uber's ongoing controversy over its handling of automated driver suspensions and data protection practices. The company has faced numerous lawsuits and criticism from regulators and users alike, and this latest penalty has further strained relationships with lawmakers and industry peers.