Uber fined nearly $1 billion by Dutch regulator for automated driver deactivations

Massive Fine for GDPR Violation

The Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) has imposed a fine of 824.9 million euros, equivalent to approximately $966 million, on Uber. This penalty stems from Uber's alleged violation of the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Automated Driver Deactivations

The core of the violation involves Uber automatically deactivating driver accounts between 2018 and 2022. The AP accused the company of making these decisions without human intervention, thereby depriving drivers of their income through fully automated processes. The investigation was initiated after 171 French drivers reported these issues.

Impact on Drivers

Monique Verdier, deputy chair of the AP, highlighted the significant impact on drivers, stating that they lost their income from Uber without warning. The AP emphasized that automated systems should not make decisions with major consequences for individuals without human oversight.

Previous Penalties and Appeal

This is not the first time Uber has faced fines from the AP; previous penalties include 600,000 euros in 2018, 10 million euros in 2023, and 290 million euros in 2024 for improper data transfers. The current 824.9 million euro fine represents the maximum penalty, calculated as four percent of Uber's worldwide annual turnover. Uber has reportedly filed an appeal against this fine.