Microsoft is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice and Securities and Exchange Commission over potential bribery and corruption in its handling of software sales to the Hungarian government, The Wall Street Journal reports.
According to the report, U.S. authorities are probing potential wrongdoing in a scheme through which Microsoft allegedly sold software to "middleman firms" at large discounts. The firms involved would then sell the software to the Hungarian government at their full prices, allegedly using the difference to bribe government officials.
In a statement to The Wall Street Journal, Microsoft's deputy general counsel, David Howard, said that the company quickly engaged in its own investigation after finding out about "potential wrongdoing." The company says that it fired four of its employees in Hungary as a result of its own probe. It also ended relationships with four partner companies in the country last year. "We're committed to ethical business practices and won't compromise these standards," Howard told The Wall Street Journal.
This investigation follows similar probes Microsoft has faced in recent years over its software sales practices in other countries. In 2013, the company was investigated over potential bribery schemes in China, Romania, Italy, Russia, and Pakistan. It's unclear if Microsoft is still under investigation over dealings in those countries.
Microsoft told The Wall Street Journal that it is cooperating with investigators and it has moved to improve transparency around its discounting practices.
Add or upgrade the RAM in your MSI GE66 Raider with this guide
Have an MSI GE66 Raider without enough memory for your needs? Our guide walks you through what's needed to upgrade the RAM in your laptop.
The Razer Tomahawk is small in stature, but mighty in power
Razer has a new gaming PC on the scene, and this time it's a compact desktop. The Razer Tomahawk Gaming Desktop uses a variation of the Tomahawk case to bring a modular, powerful PC that's designed to take up very little of your desk space.
Review: Razer's Hammerhead True Wireless Pro deliver THX and ANC for gamers
If you're looking for really good wireless earbuds and also happen to like mobile gaming, the new Razer Hammerhead True Wireless Pro is what you need. Featuring THX audio, ANC, low-latency streaming, and excellent comfort, there's a lot to like. Here's what we think of them after a week of using them with iOS and Android.
Here are the best Cyberpunk 2077 collectibles and merch
Cyberpunk 2077 is a huge game, and is accompanied by a massive pool of collectibles, accessories, and merch for everyone from hardcore collectors to dabbling fans. Here are the best collectibles and merch for Cyberpunk 2077.