Illinois Instagram users! Attention is due, as you may be eligible for a payout arising from a $68.5 million class action settlement against Meta, Instagram’s parent company. This complex legal battle unveils concerns surrounding biometric data collection and user privacy in the social media age.
The Allegations:
- BIPA Breach: The lawsuit, filed in 2018, alleges that Instagram violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) by collecting and storing facial recognition data of its users in the state without their informed consent.
- Strict Law, Strict Measures: BIPA is a stringent law requiring companies to obtain written consent before collecting or storing biometric data, including facial scans.
Settlement Overview:
- Agreement Reached: The settlement, approved in September 2023, covers all Illinois residents who used Instagram between August 10, 2015, and August 16, 2023.
- Potential Payouts: Individuals with valid claims could receive payments ranging from $25 to $400.
- Claim Deadline Looms: Submit your claim by February 27, 2024, to be considered.
Claiming Your Share:
- Visit the Settlement Website: Access https://www.classaction.org/biometric-privacy-lawsuits-facebook-instagram-oculus-whatsapp to learn more and submit your claim electronically.
- Necessary Information: Be prepared to share your name, email address, and dates of Instagram usage in Illinois.
- Alternative Claim Options: Submit your claim via mail or phone for your convenience.
Key Points to Remember:
- Proof Not Required: You don’t need proof of Instagram collecting your facial data to file a claim.
- No Lawyer Needed: Legal representation is not mandatory for claim submission.
- Patience is Key: The claims process may take several months to conclude.
| Complete Date | Case | Citation | Court | Short Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | N/A | N/A | N/A | Lawsuit alleges Instagram violated Illinois BIPA by collecting facial recognition data without consent. |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | BIPA requires written consent for collecting and storing biometric data like facial scans. |
| September 2023 | N/A | N/A | N/A | $68.5 million settlement approved, covering Illinois Instagram users from 2015 to 2023. |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Potential payouts between $25 and $400 for valid claims. |
| February 27, 2024 | N/A | N/A | N/A | Deadline to submit claims. |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Website: https://www.classaction.org/biometric-privacy-lawsuits-facebook-instagram-oculus-whatsapp |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Required information: name, email, dates of Illinois Instagram usage. |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Alternative claim options: mail, phone. |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | No proof of data collection needed, lawyer not required, process may take several months. |
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | This information is for general knowledge only, consult an attorney for specific legal advice. |
Disclaimer:
This information serves informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific inquiries regarding the settlement, consult an attorney.
