Uber bans drivers, riders carrying guns

Uber says it is banning its passengers and drivers from carrying firearms.

A screen shot of the Uber taxi app in Brisbane, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014. Uber, which allows users to book private cars or taxis, has launched an upgraded app that allows employees to book trips directly onto the company credit card. (AAP Image/Dan Peled) NO ARCHIVING Source: AAP

Ride-sharing app company Uber says it is banning its riders and drivers from carrying guns.

Uber Technologies says it is banning firearms of any kind during rides arranged through the Uber platform, and drivers or riders who violate the rule may lose access to the platform.

The rules also apply to Uber's affiliates.

The US company says it changed its firearms policy on June 10 based on feedback from riders and drivers.

Previously it had deferred to local law on the issue.

Competitor Lyft also has a "no weapons" policy.

According to Lyft's website, if a driver or rider is found to have a weapon in a Lyft vehicle they'll be barred from the platform regardless of local laws on weapons possession.