History of Uber Files in Timeline

The Uber Files, a leaked database spanning 2013-2017, expose Uber's controversial global expansion tactics. Leaked by former executive Mark MacGann, the files detail aggressive lobbying efforts targeting influential figures like George Osborne, Olaf Scholz, Joe Biden and Emmanuel Macron, sometimes successfully. The documents reveal morally questionable and potentially illegal practices, including the use of tools like "greyball" to evade law enforcement and a "kill switch" to conceal data during raids. A key revelation highlights former CEO Travis Kalanick's disregard for driver safety, even suggesting violence against Uber drivers protesting in France "guarantees success".

2013: Start of Uber Activities

In 2013, according to the leaked Uber Files, Uber's activities began in about 40 countries, continuing until 2017.

December 2014: Uber Hires Avisa Partners to Manipulate Public Debate

In December 2014, Uber hired Avisa Partners (then known as iStrat) to manipulate public debate in its favor by publishing 19 fake articles on 13 websites while a legal case concerning UberPop was being considered by the Tribunal de commerce de Paris.

December 2014: Passenger Assaulted in Uber Cab in New Delhi

In December 2014, an Uber cab passenger was assaulted by its driver in New Delhi. Following this incident, Uber was temporarily withdrawn and then forced to manage operations through an Indian subsidiary, leading to disputes with Indian authorities and the use of a 'kill switch' to prevent access to evidence.

2014: Macron's Meetings with Uber Officials

In 2014, Emmanuel Macron met with Uber officials, during which he allegedly supported the company. These meetings later faced scrutiny, with opposition politicians calling for an inquiry into Macron's links to Uber.

2016: Macron's Meetings with Uber Officials

In 2016, Emmanuel Macron continued to meet with Uber officials, expressing pride in his support for the company. This support later became a subject of controversy and calls for investigation by French opposition politicians.

2017: Uber Stopped Using Greyball App

In 2017, Uber stated that it stopped using the Greyball app, which was used to evade law enforcement by displaying a fake version of the app to targeted individuals such as local police.

2017: End of Uber Activities Documented in Leaked Files

In 2017, the period of Uber's activities documented in the leaked Uber Files came to an end. These files, which were later leaked in July 2022, revealed various controversial practices.

July 2022: Uber Files Leaked

In July 2022, the Uber Files, a database of Uber's activities in about 40 countries from 2013 to 2017, was leaked by former senior executive Mark MacGann and published by The Guardian. The files revealed attempts to lobby powerful figures and the use of tools to mislead police and conceal data.