Scandals vs. service: Will riders delete app?

DETROIT» Uber has managed to hold the title of world’s largest ride-hailing service despite its seemingly endless string of scandals.

Its latest misbehavior involving a data breach cover-up revealed this week could be the impetus for people to ride elsewhere — or keep looking the other way.

Hackers were able to steal data for 57 million riders and drivers, and Uber concealed it for a year after paying $100,000 in ransom for the stolen information to be destroyed.

Riders and business experts say that while Uber’s problems such as work- place sexual harassment, drivers with criminal records and other past infractions are serious, stolen data hits people directly and could make them mad enough to delete the app.

Michael Pachter, a technology analyst based in Los Angeles, said he uses Uber five to 10 times a month.

“I don’t blame the drivers for the company transgressions, and view Uber as the glue that facilitates drivers willing to drive me around,” he said.

But for Vermont resident Jay Furr, the breach was the “final straw.” He had stuck with Uber despite recent problems because of the service. But now he’ll use Lyft, Uber’s main competitor.

“Why reward crooked behavior?” he asked. “The only way they will learn is if they lose business.”

While Uber drivers lost personal data and face uncertainty over identity theft, it appears they’ll stick with Uber. Many drive for Lyft as well.

Nate Tepp, who drives Uber in Seattle, said he doesn’t plan to leave, nor does he think other drivers will. “All they are doing is cutting out 60 to 65 percent of their income,” Tepp said of drivers who might consider leaving. That estimate is based on his own split between Uber and Lyft fares.

Tepp also thinks the last three to four months at Uber have been different and things have “started to go in drivers’ favor.” This includes adding an option for riders to tip.