N.J. Attorney General Investigating Uber Over Handling of Sexual Assaults

The New Jersey Attorney General's office has launched an investigation into ride-sharing giant Uber, probing the company's handling of sexual assaults and allegations of consumer fraud. According to sources familiar with the inquiry, the investigation centers on whether Uber made false or misleading claims about its commitment to passenger safety.The probe is examining whether Uber's marketing and promotional efforts accurately reflected the company's actual practices and policies for addressing reports of sexual assault and other safety concerns. Specifically, investigators are looking into whether Uber's claims about its consumer safeguards were deceptive or exaggerated, potentially constituting consumer fraud.While details of the investigation remain scarce, it is clear that the New Jersey Attorney General's office is taking a close look at Uber's internal processes and procedures for responding to allegations of sexual misconduct. This includes how the company verifies the identities of its drivers, conducts background checks, and handles reports of assault.Uber has faced mounting criticism in recent years over its handling of safety issues, including allegations of sexual assault and harassment. In 2018, the company reported that it had received over 5,900 reports of sexual assault in the United States alone, sparking widespread calls for greater transparency and accountability.The investigation by the New Jersey Attorney General's office adds to a growing list of regulatory challenges facing Uber, which has been under intense scrutiny from lawmakers and law enforcement agencies around the world. As the company continues to expand its operations and services, it remains to be seen how it will address concerns about passenger safety and transparency.