Apple Fires Employees Over Alleged Misuse of Matching Grants Program; TANA Under Investigation

Apple has reportedly terminated several employees of Indian origin in the US for allegedly exploiting its corporate matching grants program, according to the Times of India. The program allows Apple to match employee donations to eligible charities, but some employees allegedly fabricated donation records and redirected matched funds back to themselves. While reports suggest that up to 185 employees may be implicated, this figure has not been officially confirmed.
The Telugu Association of North America (TANA) is also under investigation for its possible involvement in the misuse of these grants. Federal agencies, including the FBI, IRS, and DOJ, are probing TANA’s activities. A subpoena issued by the US District Court on December 12 requires TANA to provide records and grand jury testimony. Documents sought include financial transactions, donation records, and policies from 2019 to 2024, as well as details on donations through corporate matching programs.
This case highlights the risks of fraud in corporate social responsibility programs and emphasizes the need for stricter oversight. Apple has not yet issued an official statement regarding the allegations, and the investigation is ongoing, with TANA granted a one-month extension to comply with the subpoena.
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