Uber tries to solve sexual misconduct issues by banning riders from flirting

Uber released a new set of rules for passengers on Thursday, banning vandalism, "vomiting due to excessive alcohol consumption" and flirting. It is the first time Uber has published specific guidelines for passengers. The rules set out specific examples of unacceptable behaviour, and people flouting the rules could be permanently banned from the service. "Most riders show drivers the respect they deserve," the company said in a statement. "But some don't – whether it's leaving trash in the car, throwing up in the back seat after too much alcohol or asking a driver to break the speed limit so they can get to their appointment on time. Some of the guidelines relate to sexual misconduct. There have been a number of cases where Uber drivers have been accused of rape and sexual assault since its inception. While setting out rules for passenger-driver interactions, some of the guidelines appear to be aimed at people using UberPool – the money-saving service where separate passengers are collected and dropped off at different locations in the same car. "Don't touch or flirt with other people in the car," the rules state. Drivers are also banned from flirting. "As a reminder, Uber has a no sex rule.