Riders claim Uber fares spike after using gift cards

Some Uber users say they’ve seen higher fares after loading gift cards or credits into the app, and the theory is gaining traction online.

SFGate spoke with multiple riders who noticed price hikes on familiar routes. Travel blogger Gary Leff also reported a jump in fare after using AmEx credits, fueling debate on Reddit.

Uber denies the allegations, telling KTLA that fares aren’t influenced by payment method and are based solely on real-time demand.

Critics say it may point to a larger trend of “surveillance pricing,” where the app could adjust prices based on user behavior.

Andy Riesmeyer reports on April 22, 2025.