How Do Illinois Residents Claim Their Share of Facebook’s Privacy Data Settlement?

Facebook users who had an active account between May 2007 and December 2022 can now apply to receive a portion of a monstrous lawsuit against Meta. The owner of FB is looking at shelling out a $725 million settlement related to the Cambridge Analytica scandal.

Here's what you need to know to claim your share.

Who is eligible to receive a settlement payment?

Any Facebook user who had an active account sometime between May 24, 2007, and December 22, 2022, is eligible to be part of the settlement class, including those who have since deleted their accounts.

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How much will the settlement payment be?

It's not yet clear how much each settlement payment will be. The fund will be distributed to class members who submit valid claims based on how long they had an active Facebook account during the relevant period, according to a frequently asked questions page on the settlement site.

When and how will settlement payments be distributed?

A final settlement approval hearing is set for September 7. Settlement payments will be distributed after the court's approval, assuming there are no appeals.

What changes has Facebook made since the Cambridge Analytica incident?

Meta did not admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement. Facebook has made changes in the wake of the Cambridge Analytica incident, including restricting third-party access to user data and improving communications to users about how their data is collected and shared.

How do I apply for a settlement payment?

To apply for a settlement payment, fill out the claim form online or print it and submit it by mail. The form requires a few personal details and information about your Facebook account.

The process takes only a few minutes, and the form must be submitted by August 25 to be included in the settlement.

[h/t WSIL]