In 2016, a class action lawsuit accused Standard Innovation Corp., the maker of the Bluetooth-enabled We-Vibe Sync sex toy, of collecting and transmitting sensitive user data without consent. This alleged data included usage time, vibration settings, and even location. The lawsuit argued violations of privacy laws, and led to a $3.75 million settlement requiring data deletion and security improvements.
Detailed Breakdown:
Allegations:
- Data Collection: The lawsuit alleged the We-Vibe Sync app collected and transmitted sensitive user data like usage dates/times, vibration settings, and potentially even location, without user consent.
- Law Violations: Plaintiffs claimed violations of:
- Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA): Protects electronic communication privacy, potentially applicable to data transmission.
- Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA): Prohibits unauthorized access to computer systems, potentially covering data collection without consent.
- California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA): Protects California residents’ privacy, requiring disclosure of data collection practices.
Standard Innovation Corp.’s Response:
- The company denied the allegations, claiming the data collection was necessary for app functionality and user consent was implied through app use.
- They argued data security measures were taken, including data encryption.
Settlement:
- In February 2017, a $3.75 million settlement was reached.
- Terms included:
- Data Deletion: Standard Innovation Corp. agreed to delete all collected user data.
- Security Measures: Implementing additional data security measures became mandatory.
- Refunds/Replacements: We-Vibe Sync purchasers could claim refunds or replacements.
Impact:
- This lawsuit was among the first major ones against a sex toy manufacturer for alleged privacy violations.
- It raised awareness of potential privacy risks associated with connected devices.
- It highlighted the importance of data privacy and transparent data collection practices by companies.
Additional Information:
- While the $3.75 million settlement was reached in 2017, it marked the conclusion of the main lawsuit.
- No further major updates or developments related to the case have been reported since the settlement.
- The impact of the lawsuit lies in raising awareness and potentially influencing data collection practices within the connected sex toy industry.
| Complete Date | Case | Citation | Court | Short Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March 2016 | Jane Doe, et al. vs. Standard Innovation Corp. | N/A (Class Action) | District Court for the Northern District of California | Lawsuit filed alleging We-Vibe Sync app collected and transmitted sensitive user data without consent, potentially violating privacy laws. |
| February 2017 | Jane Doe, et al. vs. Standard Innovation Corp. | N/A (Class Action Settlement) | District Court for the Northern District of California | $3.75 million settlement reached: data deletion, security improvements, and refund/replacement options for purchasers. |
Note: This information is based on publicly available sources and may not be exhaustive. It is not intended as legal advice, and you should consult with an attorney for any specific legal questions or concerns.
