The internet is ablaze with criticism of Uber’s new ‘Advance tip’ feature, with users accusing the ride-hailing giant of pressuring them to pay extra upfront for faster service.
The Central Consumer Protection Authority has now stepped in, and issued a notice to Uber after Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi condemned the practice as “unethical and exploitative”. “Such actions fall under unfair trade practices,” he said on social media while ordering a formal investigation.
Uber’s app prompts users to add tips of Rs 50, Rs 75, or Rs 100 while booking a ride, suggesting that doing so may increase the chances of a driver accepting the trip. The app also warns users that the tip, once added, cannot be modified, and assures that the full amount goes to the driver.
Social media users are frustrated over this new feature, with many likening it to paying a waiter before getting service.
“Thanks to this feature, now the drivers don’t accept the ride at the given rate anymore. And on top of that, we have to add more than Rs 100 tip to make them accept the ride,” one user said on X.