Privacy breaches are no small matter, especially when it comes to your personal data being sold without consent. If you’ve lived in California between December 3, 2016, and October 31, 2024, you may be entitled to $19–$48 as part of a $27.5 million settlement in the Thomson Reuters CLEAR Data Privacy Class Action case. Here’s everything you need to know to secure your share.
Overview
Why the Lawsuit Matters
Thomson Reuters faced allegations of violating California’s stringent privacy laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), by selling residents’ personal data through its CLEAR database without consent. The lawsuit claims this data sale violated individuals’ right to privacy.
What’s the Settlement?
- Total Fund: $27.5 million
- Eligible Payout: $19–$48 per valid claim
- Deadline: Submit your claim by December 27, 2024
- No Extra Proof Required: A sworn attestation suffices for residency verification.
Qualification
You qualify if:
- You lived in California anytime between December 3, 2016, and October 31, 2024.
- You were 18 years or older during that time.
There’s no need to provide utility bills, IDs, or other documentation—just confirm your eligibility under penalty of perjury.
Filing a Claim
Filing is straightforward and only takes a few minutes:
- Visit the Official Website
Go to clearprivacysettlement.com. - Complete the Claim Form
- Online: Fill out the form directly on the website.
- Mail: Download, print, complete, and send the form to the designated address.
- Provide Required Information
- Full name
- Current address
- Email and phone number
- Attest to Eligibility
Confirm that you meet the residency and age requirements. - Submit Before December 27, 2024
Ensure online claims are submitted or mailed forms are received by the deadline.
Settlement Details
Payment Distribution
After legal and administrative costs are deducted from the $27.5 million settlement, eligible participants will receive payments estimated between $19 and $48.
When to Expect Payment
Payments will be distributed after the final approval hearing on February 13, 2025. The final amount depends on the number of claims filed. If fewer claims are submitted, payouts may exceed $48.
Key Benefits
- Empowers Privacy Rights
This settlement emphasizes the importance of consumer privacy and enforces corporate accountability. - Legal Precedence
It reinforces laws like the CCPA, paving the way for stricter privacy standards. - Simplified Claim Process
With minimal requirements, it’s easy to participate and claim your compensation.
Comparison to Similar Settlements
Here’s how this settlement stacks up against others:
| Case | Max Payout | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook Biometric | $397 | Privacy breach on biometrics |
| Equifax Data Breach | $125 | Data theft compensation |
| Thomson Reuters CLEAR | $19–$48 | Selling personal data |
Although smaller, the Thomson Reuters settlement marks significant progress for privacy protection efforts.
Tips to Maximize Success
- File Early: Don’t procrastinate—start your claim today.
- Stay Accurate: Double-check your personal details to avoid payment delays.
- Monitor Updates: Bookmark the settlement site to stay informed.
With its straightforward filing process and focus on privacy rights, this settlement offers an easy way to make your voice heard and your privacy respected. Don’t miss the December 27, 2024 deadline to file your claim.
