Uber drivers accused of ‘vomit fraud' by overcharged passengers

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - The Better Business Bureau is warning customers of Uber drivers who commit 'vomit fraud,' overcharging them for spills that never occurred during their ride.

Marina Frkovic says her friend is among the alleged scam's victims. She took an Uber, then later discovered a charge for a cleaning fee for a spill that didn't occur.

"She got sushi in the city and they charged her like, $250 for a 'throw up charge,'" Frkovic explained. "She ended up just tweeting Uber and they ended up refunding her."

Marina's friend's experience is common, according to a Better Business Bureau warning.

The BBB says some Uber drivers are charging riders a 'damage fee' and posting dubious pictures of supposed vomit or other spilled bodily fluids to justify the charges. Some Lyft users have reported similar problems.

"You kind of trust your Uber driver to give you your ride to where you want to be and you are already paying them," Frkovic said. "So why would you take more money out, you know?"

Christine Layden says her friend also fell victim to the alleged scam.

"She was so annoyed it happened that she just deleted her whole Uber account," said Layden.

Uber tells FOX 29 the vast majority of cleaning fees issues are because of a legitimate mess a customer makes in a car, but says drivers who commit fraud are banned from the app.

"Participating in fraudulent activity of any kind is a clear violation of our community guidelines," the ridesharing giant said in a statement. "We are constantly evaluating our processes and technology related to these claims and will take appropriate action whenever fraud may be detected."

Uber urges customers to report questionable charges right away and asks drivers to report any damage with photos as soon as possible.