Should Uber and Lyft let you know ahead of time if a driver will have a camera on you?

I have watched many of the videos and don’t blame them. All the public buses have cameras now and they don’t tell you either.

Put your pants on, OP.

Isn't it illegal to record people without their consent? Why else would every customer service line have a "this call may be monitored or recorded ..." disclaimer? Maybe the inside of an Uber car is considered a fully public space (like a bus), but I think they should tell you anyway. All it would take is a standard disclaimer on the screen where you order the car. "For safety and customer service purposes, your ride may be recorded on video" or something like that.

Otherwise, I don't see what's wrong with it. We're on camera all the time nowadays via CCTV. As long as you know that the back of an Uber car is no different from being on the street or on a bus, why would it bother you?

Hey Paranoids. If you're not doing anything wrong in the car, you have no reason to worry about.

I got in an Uber once and the camera was a guys iPad strapped to the back of the front passenger seat. I was in the back seat, so the iPad was like ten inches from my face. It was obnoxious. He did have a sign saying YOU ARE ON CAMERA. I just got out and ordered another ride. I was credited for the aborted ride with the camera in my face.

There are cameras at the CVS self checkout kiosks and I assume in almost every retail store, public elevator, etc.

My objection to Uber/Lyft cameras is the potential for them to be placed closer and have higher resolution. I realize it’s just a matter of degree, but it feels more invasive.

I think the safety of the driver outweighs my dislike, though.

Yes, IMO, since the drivers' vehicles are being used for a commercial purpose of transporting paying customers. A vehicle is not really a "private" place when it's out on the road, I realize, but since Uber of Lyfts involve transport business transactions, yeah I agree there should be a camera for the safety and security of both the driver and the passenger(s), and that it wouldn't hurt if the driver lets paying customers know when they get in (the way society is nowadays with all the robberies and violence going on in this line of work especially lately, unfortunately).

Just assume the camera is there and you’ll be right most of the time

No. You should assume that ALL Lyft and Uber cars, as well as all taxis, have cameras.

I have huge issues with the ongoing erosion of privacy. But, circumstances and general lawlessness have essentially conspired to make videos often the only thing that saves you from a wrongful and life destroying accusation by some unhinged piece of crap.