Apple has laid off several Indian-origin workers in the US over allegations of 'abuse' of the grant program. The Indian media The Times of India reported this information.
Apple operates a 'Matching Grant Program' to encourage employees to donate. Through this program, the amount of money that the employees donate to any charity or social organization, the company donates that amount to certain organizations. However, Apple has been accused of cheating by using this project.
According to the report, the concerned employees created false records regarding the donation and took back the money given by Apple to themselves.
Around 185 employees may be involved in this fraud. However, this number has not been officially confirmed. Apart from this, it has been alleged that the Telugu Association of North America (TANA) is involved in this fraud. The organization is involved in the misuse of corporate matching grants from various companies including Apple. TNNA takes the donated money back to itself. According to sources, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) are investigating the organization's activities.
A US District Court issued a subpoena to TANA on December 12 last year, ordering the organization to testify before a jury by December 26. However, the time for giving this testimony was later extended.
According to the report, the court has sought a variety of documents for evidence, including grant records from 2019 to 2024, financial transactions and accounting and auditing policies. Besides this, records of board meetings, sub-committees and related activities have also been sought.
The subpoena specifically sought details of all donations received by TANA, including donations from the Corporate Matching Program. Besides, the purpose of disbursed money and bank details have also been sought. While the exact scope of the investigation is still unknown, sources say it is likely part of a larger investigation.
This investigation highlights the importance of strong oversight to prevent potential vulnerabilities and fraudulent activity within corporate matching grant programs. Apple has yet to make an official statement about the allegations.
