Uber can track your location even after you’ve been dropped off

A NEW update to the Uber app means it can now track you after you’ve been dropped off. Customers are furious - and more than a little creeped out.

A new update means Uber can track your movements for five minutes after your ride.

A NEW update to Uber has given the app the ability to track passengers’ locations even after they’ve been dropped off and exited the program.

The firm can now collect passenger data up to five minutes after a journey has finished.

The global taxi giant was previously only able to do this when users had the app open.

Uber claims the upgrade will help end the frustration experienced when drivers and passengers can’t locate each other.

Explaining the update on its website, Uber said: “Uber collects your location data from the time of trip request through five minutes after the trip ends, including when the app is in the background.

“We do this to improve pick-ups, drop-offs, customer service, and to enhance safety. Trip Related Location Data is collected during the following times.”

With the latest update, Uber now requires "Always" location permission. They set a new record for creepiness *and* arrogance. pic.twitter.com/cwt81yPslc

— Ben Sandofsky (@sandofsky) December 2, 2016

So this morning I can't book an @Uber because they are now forcing background location tracking. Dont update your app. #notCool

— Rand Hindi (@randhindi) December 1, 2016

The latest update to the @Uber app basically requires users to let uber track their location even when not using the app. Bye #Uber.

— Real Housebear (@Real_Housebear) November 24, 2016

Luckily, users still have the choice between setting their information sharing options to “Always” or “Never”.

But if riders opt for “Never”, they will be forced to enter their pick-up and drop off locations manually every time they use the app.

Speaking on the app update, a spokesperson for Uber told London’s Metro: “We’re always thinking about ways we can improve the rider experience from sharpening our ETA estimates, to identifying the best pick-up location on any given street.

“Location is at the heart of the Uber experience, and we’re asking riders to provide us with more information to achieve these goals.”

The update has already been slammed by privacy advocates in the US.

The tech giant is experimenting with self-driving cars in the United States.

The Electronic Privacy Information Centre has reportedly filed a complaint with the US Federal Trade Commission for what it has described as “unfair and deceptive trade practice”.

Uber has been embroiled in legal issues regarding passenger data in the past.

The firm was recently ordered to fork out $20,000 (A$26,800) after a case in the US this year.

US courts ordered the payout after probing into its “God View” tool, which allowed drivers to track their riders in real time before it was phased out.

This article originally appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission.