Apple Inc. has reportedly terminated several employees of Indian origin in the U.S. for allegedly exploiting the company’s corporate matching grants program. The program, which matches employee charitable donations to qualifying organizations, is at the center of a growing controversy.
The affected employees are accused of collaborating with certain charitable organizations, including the Telugu Association of North America (TANA), to fabricate donation records and divert matching funds back to themselves. While media reports suggest that up to 185 employees may be involved, the exact number remains unconfirmed.
The U.S. authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Department of Justice (DOJ), are investigating TANA’s involvement in the alleged misuse. A subpoena has been issued by the U.S. District Court demanding that TANA provide detailed records, including financial transactions and internal auditing documents from 2019 to 2024.
As the investigation unfolds, Apple has yet to make an official statement on the matter. The case highlights the vulnerabilities within corporate matching grant programs and underscores the need for rigorous oversight to prevent fraudulent activities.
