A group of six former Apple employees is under investigation for allegedly stealing $152,000 from Apple’s donation matching program. The scheme, uncovered by Santa Clara County prosecutors, highlights how the accused exploited Apple’s charitable initiative for personal financial benefit.
How the Scheme Operated
Apple’s Matching Gifts Program encourages employees to donate to eligible charities by matching their contributions at rates of 100% or 200%. However, the accused employees, led by Siu Kei Kwan, reportedly exploited the program over three years.
Kwan, CEO of Hop4Kids and an accountant for the American Chinese International Cultural Exchange, allegedly used his privileged access to these organizations to orchestrate the fraud. The scheme involved five Apple employees—Yathei Yuen, Yat C Ng, Wentao Li, Lichao Ni, and Zheng Chang—donating to these groups. After Apple matched the donations, Kwan refunded the employees while pocketing Apple’s contributions.
To further benefit the group, Kwan allegedly manipulated tax returns, ensuring participants received tax benefits on their refunded donations.
Charges and Consequences
The suspects face charges of grand theft, conspiracy to commit felony, perjury, and tax fraud. If convicted, they could face jail time, restitution payments, and additional fines.
Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen emphasized the seriousness of the case. “This fraud exploits charitable programs designed to help the needy, not for personal enrichment. Apple’s cooperation was crucial in uncovering this scheme,” he stated.
A Lesson for the Tech Community
The case highlights vulnerabilities in corporate donation programs and the need for stricter oversight. Apple’s swift action and collaboration with authorities serve as a reminder for companies to remain vigilant against fraud.
This case underscores the importance of protecting charitable initiatives to ensure they benefit those in need rather than being exploited for personal gain.
