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In a significant development for affected customers, AT&T has agreed to a $177 million lawsuit settlement following two major data breaches that jeopardized millions of their users’ personal information. The settlement aims to compensate customers impacted by these breaches and to avoid further legal proceedings.
Understanding the AT&T Lawsuit Settlement
The lawsuit, which stems from breaches in 2019 and 2024, has been a hot topic in tech and consumer safety discussions. A preliminary approval by a Texas judge in August kickstarted the process for affected customers to claim compensation. Under the terms of the settlement, customers could potentially receive up to $7,500, depending on their circumstances.
The two breaches that led to this settlement involved the personal data of millions of users. The first breach affected 73 million customers, with sensitive information like Social Security numbers and legal names being compromised. Though AT&T did not disclose this breach until 2024, the ramifications have persisted, leading to this settlement.
The second data security incident occurred in 2024, further complicating AT&T’s legal challenges. This breach reportedly impacted 109 million customers, allowing hackers to access significant metadata including call details and locations. This level of data exposure is alarming and underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures across all tech and communications sectors.
How Customers Can Claim Their Settlement
If you are among the countless individuals whose personal data may have been compromised, here’s what you need to know:
- The settlement is divided into two classes: the AT&T 1 Settlement Class for the 2019 breach and the AT&T 2 Settlement Class for the 2024 breach.
- Eligible customers from the 2019 breach can claim a share of the $149 million allocated for this class, while those from the 2024 breach can claim from the remaining $28 million.
- If you haven’t received any communication regarding your eligibility, contact the Kroll Settlement Administration for clarity. They can be reached via phone at (833) 890-4930 or by mail at their listed address.
To file a claim, customers should check their eligibility through documents and emails from Kroll. You will likely need a Class Member ID, provided during the notification process. For those who prefer not to file online, there are forms available for print mail submissions.
What to Expect in Terms of Compensation
The compensation for affected users depends on proving documented financial loss due to the data breaches. If successful, 2019 breach claimants may receive up to $5,000, while 2024 claimants might qualify for up to $2,500. Those unable to prove financial loss but who qualify will receive a proportional share of the remaining funds.
The deadline for filing claims is December 18, 2025, so it is imperative for clients to stay vigilant and ensure they submit their claims on time.
Final Thoughts on the AT&T Settlement
This lawsuit settlement presents an essential opportunity for many AT&T customers to reclaim some level of security after troubling incidents. As industries grow more digital, the spotlight on data privacy is more critical than ever. Always be sure to monitor your accounts and personal information regularly.
FAQ
1. How do I know if I’m eligible for the AT&T settlement?
If you were a current or former AT&T customer between 2019 and 2024, you may be eligible for the settlement. Check communications from Kroll for specific details.
2. What information do I need to provide to file a claim?
You will need your Class Member ID and any documentation proving financial loss if applicable. Claims can be submitted online or via mail.
3. What is the deadline to file a claim?
The deadline to submit your claim for the AT&T lawsuit settlement is December 18, 2025.
4. Can I file a claim for both breaches?
Yes, if you qualify for both breaches, you can submit separate claims for each, but you may need to provide proof for each incident.
