Millions of Facebook users who filed claims in the $725 million privacy settlement are starting to receive their payouts. If you submitted a claim back in 2023, keep an eye on your email and mailbox – your share might be on its way!
Who is Eligible and How Much Will They Get?
The settlement stems from lawsuits accusing Facebook of mishandling user data and sharing it with advertisers and data brokers, particularly related to the 2018 Cambridge Analytica scandal. Meta, Facebook's parent company, denies any wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid a lengthy trial.
Payouts are being distributed via check, PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle over a 10-week period that began in September. The average payout is estimated to be around $29.43, with a maximum of about $38.36. The exact amount depends on how long you were an active Facebook user between May 24, 2007, and December 22, 2022. Users received 'allocation points' for each month of activity, meaning long-time users will receive larger payments.
How to Know if You're Getting Paid
Eligible users will receive an email from the “Facebook User Privacy Settlement Administrator” with a “notice of upcoming settlement payment” or a “payment notice.” These emails are legitimate, so don't dismiss them as spam! Make sure to check your spam folder just in case.
Payment Methods
Payments are being distributed through various methods including:
- Check
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Zelle
If you filed a claim and haven't received any communication yet, don't worry. The distribution process is ongoing. Keep an eye on your email and postal mail for updates.
Is the Email Legit?
Yes, the emails from "Facebook User Privacy Settlement Administrator" are legitimate. Be cautious of scams and do not provide any personal information beyond what you already submitted in your claim.