Ride-sharing app Uber uses advanced algorithms in the form of tools such as “Greyball” to determine geolocation, credit card information and social media accounts. “Greyball” was a special program the company gave to law enforcement officials to help them find users involved in sting operations in Boston, Las Vegas and other American cities and even countries in the world.
According to Uber, its provision to law enforcement officials of the said algorithm was to ensure their drivers were protected from harmful passengers or possibly traffic citations. Greyball allowed them to find officials and individuals intent to close down the company — such as those trying to hail a ride and involved with investigations in Uber.
Uber is currently under fire for sexual harassment in the office and gender discrimination. A video of CEO Travis Kalanick arguing with an Uber driver about the lowered fares had also gone viral. Uber was also criticised for maintaining its operations despite an airport strike against US President Donald Trump’s executive order to refuse entry to individuals living in seven Muslim-majority countries. A hashtag “#DeleteUber” had been circulating in social media in protest against the ride-sharing application’s operations.
