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The FBI is investigating whether Uber used secret software called 'Hell' to track Lyft drivers

Sep 8, 2017, 19:21 IST

David Ramos/Stringer/Getty Images

The FBI is leading a probe into Uber's alleged use of secret software called "Hell" to track drivers from rival company Lyft, The Wall Street Journal's Rebecca Davis O'Brien and Greg Bensinger reported on Friday.

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Uber is said to have created fake Lyft passenger accounts using the internal "Hell" software so that it could see the exact location of Lyft cars. This reportedly allowed Uber to see what Lyft was charging for rides and see how many drivers were nearby.

The FBI's New York Office is now leading an investigation with the Manhattan U.S. attorney's office into Uber's use of the "Hell" program, according to the report.

An Uber spokesperson did not immediately return Business Insider's request for comment, but told the WSJ that the company was cooperating with the New York's Southern District investigation.

Uber is also under probe by the US Justice Department for its use of a software tool dubbed "Greyball" that The New York Times reported was used by Uber to help drivers evade transportation regulators. The Justice Department is also probing whether Uber violated laws involving the bribery of foreign officials.

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It's the latest in a string of scandals that newly-appointed CEO Dara Khosrowshahi will have to navigate following a tumultuous several months for the ride-hailing company. Cofounder Travis Kalanick resigned as CEO of the company in June.

NOW WATCH: Uber's pick for its new CEO is the head of Expedia and an Iranian refugee who has criticized Trump

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