Claim Your Share: Up to $7,500 Available to Americans from $18.5M Data Breach Settlement
According to The Sun, Americans affected by a significant data breach at East River Medical Imaging may be eligible to claim a portion of an $18.5 million settlement. Eligible claimants can receive up to $7,500, but the deadline to apply is fast approaching.
Background of the Data Breach
The settlement arises from a class action lawsuit filed in New York after East River Medical Imaging was targeted by hackers between August and September 2023. The attackers allegedly accessed sensitive personal information, including insurance details, Social Security numbers, contact information, and even medical procedures and imaging results. The lawsuit claims that the medical provider failed to implement adequate security measures to protect patient data.
Settlement Details
Although East River Medical Imaging has not admitted any wrongdoing, it has agreed to settle the claims to avoid prolonged litigation. Individuals whose data was compromised or who received a data breach notification are eligible to apply for compensation.
Claimants can choose between two compensation options:
- Expense Reimbursement: Eligible individuals can receive up to $7,500 for losses related to the breach, including bank fees, damages from fraud or identity theft, and the costs of professional services. To qualify, claimants must provide proof of their losses, such as bank statements, receipts, or invoices.
- Pro Rata Cash Payment: For those unable to provide proof or who prefer not to seek reimbursement, a pro rata cash payment will be distributed from the remaining settlement funds after all other claims are processed.
Additionally, all claimants will receive one year of three-bureau credit monitoring to help detect any potential fraud.
Also read: Google Flights’ New Feature Helps You Track and Book the Cheapest Airfares
Important Deadlines
Time is running out for potential claimants. The portal to submit valid claim forms will close on October 22, leaving just days to prepare and submit applications. All class members had until August 23 to opt out of the settlement or object to its terms. Those who miss the deadline to apply will forfeit their chance to receive compensation or credit monitoring benefits.
Individuals who excluded themselves from the settlement will retain their legal rights to pursue separate claims against East River Medical Imaging in the future.
How to Apply
Valid claims can be submitted through the settlement website. In related news, a mall retailer is also facing a payout of over $12 million due to false advertising claims.