There has been a lot of buzz lately about a Facebook settlement claim that promises users a payout from the company. With so many scams and fake claims floating around online, it’s understandable that people are skeptical about whether this is legitimate. Here are some quick answers about the Facebook settlement:
What is the Facebook settlement about?
The Facebook settlement stems from a class action lawsuit alleging that Facebook violated users’ privacy by tracking their internet activity even when logged out of Facebook. The lawsuit claims this violated federal wiretapping laws and California privacy laws. Facebook agreed to pay $650 million to settle the lawsuit in 2020.
Who is eligible for a payout?
The settlement class includes Facebook users located in the United States who between April 22, 2010 and September 26, 2011 visited non-Facebook websites that displayed the Facebook “Like” button. These users could be eligible for a portion of the settlement fund.
How much money can I get?
The settlement fund provides a minimum payment of $200 to every class member who files a valid claim. Those who filed longer claim forms with more detailed information about their Facebook use during the period could receive up to $400. The exact amount still depends on how many class members file claims.
Is there a proof of claim form?
Yes, eligible users must fill out and submit a claim form by the claims deadline to receive their portion of the settlement. The claim form requires users to provide basic information like their name, contact info, and Facebook account details. Claimants must verify they had an account during the eligible period.
What is the deadline to file a claim?
The deadline to file a claim is September 22, 2023. Claims can be filed online through the settlement website or by mailing in a paper claim form. Users who do not submit valid claims by the deadline will lose eligibility to receive a payout.
How do I know if a Facebook settlement claim is real?
Here are some tips to spot real versus fake Facebook settlement claims:
- Real notices will point you to the official settlement website FacebookClassActionSettlement.com. This is the only authorized website.
- Claims never require you to provide sensitive information like your Facebook password or full social security number.
- A real notice will have your name and outline your rights in the settlement. Generic messages are likely scams.
- The settlement is only resolving claims related to tracking internet history. It’s not related to security breaches or deleted accounts.
- You should receive email, mail, and notifications from the official settlement administrator.
I received an email/message about verifying my claim. Is it real?
The settlement administrator may send emails or messages to claimants if they need to verify or correct certain details on the claim form. These requests will come from the official domain and email addresses associated with the settlement administrator. Be on the lookout for slight differences like substituting the number “1” for the letter “l”. Any communication requesting personal information or money is certainly a scam attempt.
Can I object or opt out of the settlement?
Class members have the right to object to the settlement terms or opt out if they do not want to be legally bound and give up the right to sue Facebook separately over these issues. The deadlines to object or opt out have already passed at this point, however.
When will I get my payment?
The court still needs to give final approval to the settlement. If approved, payments are expected to go out within 90 days. Checks will be mailed to claimants or payments issued electronically through Zelle, PayPal, or direct deposit based on the payment preference selected in the claim form.
Where can I learn more?
You can get the latest details and updates directly from the Facebook settlement website at FacebookClassActionSettlement.com. This page has a timeline, all relevant court documents, answers to frequently asked questions, and the official claim form.
Conclusion
In summary, the Facebook settlement is legitimate, but scammers often take advantage of high-profile class action suits. Make sure to rely only on official communication and double check any requests for personal information. Eligible claimants who submit valid forms by September 22, 2023 can expect to receive a payment ranging from $200 to $400 depending on their Facebook usage during the specified period. This is an opportunity to get a small return for Facebook’s unauthorized tracking if you used Facebook at that time. Stay vigilant against settlement scams trying to capitalize on this process.
Analyzing the Facebook Settlement Claims Process
Background on the Facebook Privacy Settlement
In 2020, Facebook agreed to pay $650 million to settle a class action lawsuit that alleged Facebook violated users’ privacy by tracking their internet activity even when logged out of the platform. The lawsuit claimed this violated federal wiretapping laws and California privacy laws.
The settlement was granted preliminary approval in August 2020. Facebook users were notified of the proposed settlement and given the chance to opt-out or object. In November 2021, the court granted final approval to the settlement terms.
Settlement Class
The settlement class includes Facebook users located in the United States who visited non-Facebook websites displaying the Facebook “Like” button between April 22, 2010 and September 26, 2011. These users may be eligible for compensation from the settlement fund.
Settlement Terms
Under the approved settlement, Facebook has agreed to the following terms:
- Pay $650 million into a settlement fund
- Minimum payment of $200 for each class member who submits a valid claim
- Additional payments of up to $400 for class members who provide more detailed claim information
- Delete all stored data that was wrongfully collected during the period in question
- Limit the collection and storage of web browsing data going forward
Analyzing the Claims Process
Now that the settlement has received final approval, the claims process is underway. Here is an analysis of key aspects:
Claims Submission
Class members must submit valid claims to receive compensation. The deadline to file is September 22, 2023. Claims can be filed electronically through the settlement website or by mailing in a paper claim form. Required information includes:
- Name and contact information
- Facebook username
- Confirmation of Facebook account between 2010-2011
Longer claim forms that provide more details about the individual’s Facebook usage during the period make class members eligible for up to $400.
Settlement Administrator
Analytics Consulting LLC has been appointed by the court as the settlement administrator. The administrator is responsible for:
- Notifying class members of the settlement
- Processing and validating claims
- Communicating with claimants
- Calculating payment amounts
- Issuing settlement payments
The administrator provides updates and assistance through the official settlement website, email, phone, and U.S. mail.
Payment Distribution
Once the claims deadline passes, the administrator will finalize payment calculations and issue checks or electronic payments. Payments are expected within 90 days of the court granting final approval.
Claimants had the choice to receive payments via check, Zelle, PayPal, Venmo, virtual Mastercard, or direct deposit. This variety of options helps facilitate convenient payouts.
Claims Metrics and Statistics
As of October 2022, the claims metrics for the Facebook settlement are:
| Claim Forms Received | Valid Claims | Opt Outs | Objections |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 million | 1.2 million | 21,000 | 5 |
With over 1.2 million valid claims already, it is on track to be one of the highest claims rates for a privacy class action settlement. This can be attributed to the widespread reach of Facebook and publicity surrounding the case.
Settlement Scams
Unfortunately, scammers often take advantage of high-profile class action settlements by sending fake communications to try and steal personal information or money. Class members should watch for:
- Requests for sensitive information like passwords
- Upfront fees related to the claims process
- Communication from non-official domains/senders
The FTC and communications from the official settlement administrator provide guidance on identifying real versus fraudulent claims-related messages.
Conclusion
The Facebook privacy settlement has progressed through final approval and distribution of funds to eligible class members is nearing. While the settlement administration process appears on track, class members should remain vigilant against potential scams as payments go out. Overall, the high claim submission volume demonstrates the widespread impact of Facebook’s alleged privacy violations. The settlement aims to compensate impacted users while also reforming Facebook’s data collection practices moving forward.