RAKE IT IN: Americans to get payment from $4.89m privacy settlement – and you don’t need to show paperwork to get cash
Americans in Illinois are set to receive checks as part of a privacy settlement worth nearly $5 million. The payout is related to individuals whose personal data appeared on the reverse-search website, PeopleFinders.
Settlement Details and Eligibility
The lawsuit alleges that PeopleFinders’ parent company, Confi-Chek, used personal data without permission, violating Illinois’ Right of Publicity Act. The settlement covers people whose names were clicked on the PeopleFinders website between November 2, 2021, and January 1, 2023.
While the company has not admitted wrongdoing, it has agreed to the settlement terms, with payments estimated to range between $89 and $178 per person. The exact amount depends on the number of individuals who file claims.
How to Apply for the Payout
Claimants do not need to prove they were affected but must submit a claim form by October 7 to be eligible for a share of the settlement. Those who fail to apply will not receive any money. The same deadline applies for individuals who wish to opt out or object to the settlement.
A final approval hearing is scheduled for November 14 in Chicago, although claimants are not required to attend.
Payment Distribution and Expiration
Once the settlement becomes effective, checks will be issued either via direct deposit or mailed within 28 days. Claimants will have 180 days to cash their checks, after which the payments will expire.
Other Ongoing Settlements
This privacy settlement isn’t the only case offering compensation. Illinois residents can also apply for their share of a $152.2 million settlement involving canned tuna companies, as well as a $30 million settlement from the genetics company 23andMe due to a data breach.
Additionally, a separate privacy settlement worth $115 million is available for Americans impacted by Oracle’s data collection practices. Applications for that payout must be submitted by October 17.
Also read: Social Security update: October direct payment worth $943 goes out in two days
