Uber faces backlash over 'advance tip' feature, govt steps in

New Delhi: Uber’s new 'Advance Tip' feature has triggered widespread backlash, with users accusing the ride-hailing company of pressuring them to pay extra for faster ride acceptance.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has now issued a formal notice to Uber over the matter.

Union Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi condemned the feature, calling it "unethical and exploitative", and ordered a full investigation, citing unfair trade practices.

The feature prompts users to add a tip of ₹50, ₹75, or ₹100 while booking a ride, suggesting that tipping could increase the likelihood of a driver accepting the trip.

The app also states that the tip amount cannot be modified once added and assures that the full amount goes to the driver.

Many users have expressed frustration over Uber’s new 'Advance Tip' feature, likening it to paying a waiter before receiving service.

One user reported that drivers are now refusing to accept rides at the regular fare, forcing customers to tip over ₹100 just to get picked up.

Another user sarcastically remarked that Uber now expects customers to pay extra simply to get a response to a ride request.

"Great move," the user added, with clear frustration.

Many users pointed out that a tip should be a way to thank someone after good service, not something paid in advance, even to receive a service.

A user shared their shock at being asked for a tip before the driver even arrived.

Another user called the feature a "bad practice", comparing it to being forced to pay a waiter just to be served.

Some have gone further, calling it a form of bribery rather than tipping, accusing Uber of making users "bribe" drivers for timely pickups.

This isn’t Uber’s first run-in with the consumer protection authority.

In January, the CCPA had sent notices to both Uber and Ola over allegations that they charged different fares based on whether customers used an Android or iPhone device.

(inputs from IANS)