Uber looks into solution regarding drivers reportedly gaming for cancellation fees

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Uber is looking into a solution for a small amount of drivers who reportedly game for cancellation fees.

It comes following a report by Nine on some drivers who claim they “game the system” by trying to force passengers to cancel trips, and receiving a cancellation fee for it.

There have been other reports of similar tactics, which include messaging passengers to cancel rides, or driving far away from the pick-up location. 

On a popular forum for Uber drivers, some reasons for cancelling include when passengers take too long to get in the vehicle, when riders are inaccessible (within a gated property, for instance), or when the rider is trying to hail from an illegal area, which could result in fines.

It’s no secret that rideshare drivers are poorly paid, with companies taking high commissions from fares. Fines, or waiting for long periods don’t help with driver earnings.

An Uber Australia spokesperson told Mashable that instances of drivers gaming the system represent a “minute portion of all trips,” and that it’s looking into a solution to the issue. 

“We are continually working on technology solutions as well as education to inform driver partners and riders about safe pick-up zones and ways to reduce cancellations,” Uber’s spokesperson said.

“We have an in-app Help section where riders can report issues around cancellation fees and we follow up with driver partners who regularly have cancelled trips. We are also working on an enhanced technology solution to further examine cancellations that will be rolled out in April.”

Uber didn’t offer any further detail on the “enhanced technology solution” it is planning to roll out when asked by Mashable.