FAQ: Is there a Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

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Jessie Paluch

Attorney Jessie Paluch, founder of TruLaw, has over 25 years of experience as a personal injury and mass tort attorney, and previously worked as an international tax attorney at Deloitte. Jessie collaborates with attorneys nationwide — enabling her to share reliable, up-to-date legal information with our readers.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and legal experts at TruLawsuit Info and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Jessie Paluch, you can do so here.

TruLawsuit Info does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact our team by using the chat on the bottom of this page. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Key Takeaways:

  • Meta Platforms Inc., Facebook's parent company, faces a $725 million class action lawsuit for allegations of misusing user data and violating privacy.
  • Eligible individuals must have had a Facebook account between May 24, 2007, and December 22, 2022; claims can be filed through an official settlement website or by mail.
  • If your claim is rejected, instructions will be provided on how to appeal or submit additional information; staying updated through the official settlement website is key.

FAQ: Is there a Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

Question: Is there a Meta class action lawsuit?

Answer: Yes, there is an active Meta class action lawsuit stemming from privacy concerns, and Meta has agreed to a settlement of $725 million dollars.

Intro to the Meta Class Action Lawsuit

On this page, we’ll discuss this lawsuit in further depth, provide an overview of the Meta class action lawsuit, average settlement amounts in the Meta class action lawsuit, how to file for the Meta class action lawsuit, and much more.

FAQ Is there a Meta Class Action Lawsuit

The Meta class action lawsuit has resulted in approximately 28 million claims and a settlement of $725 million, receiving final approval from U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria.

Initial concerns originated from the discovery of Facebook’s Cambridge Analytica debacle, in which an advertising agency paid a Facebook app developer to gain access to 87 million Facebook users’ personal data.

The settlement payout is expected to commence around January 8, 2024, following the exhaustion of any potential appeals.

If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

Our network of legal professionals is currently researching social media’s effects on the mental health of teenage users and young adults.

Table of Contents

What is the Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

As allegations against Meta and Facebook emerged, claimants began to question how such breaches could impact their personal finances and online safety.

Meta Class Action Lawsuit: Background and History

The Meta class action lawsuit refers to a legal battle where plaintiffs have grouped together to file claims against the parent company, Meta Platforms Inc., alleging misuse of Facebook user data.

Central to these events was the revelation in 2018 that the political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica had improperly accessed data from millions of Facebook users.

This breach highlighted weaknesses in Facebook’s user data protection policies and triggered global outrage over personal privacy rights.

In response, numerous Facebook account holders felt betrayed and sought legal recourse, leading to one of the largest privacy settlements ever proposed.

With claims rapidly filed by affected individuals, this lawsuit represents a pivotal moment for holding large tech companies accountable for their handling of user information.

Allegations Against Meta

Meta faces intense scrutiny and legal challenges for its handling of user data.

Lawsuits allege that Facebook, now under Meta’s umbrella, improperly shared users’ private information with third parties without adequate consent or transparency.

Furthermore, Meta is grappling with allegations from attorneys general across the United States arguing that some features on platforms like Instagram are deliberately designed to be addictive, especially targeting younger audiences.

The settlement fund established as part of their response to these accusations aims to address the harm caused and compensate those who suffered from these alleged practices.

Finalizing the Settlement: Meta Class Action Lawsuit

The latest developments in the Meta class action lawsuit include details on the court’s recent approval of a $725 million settlement fund.

Recent Updates and Developments

In recent weeks, the class action lawsuit against Meta saw significant progress as the Settlement Administrator confirmed the final approval of a $725 million settlement.

This resolution came after numerous Facebook users submitted claims seeking compensation for the alleged misuse of their personal data by Cambridge Analytica and other third parties.

Despite reaching final approval, 500,000 claims were rejected prior to distributing payments, which sparked questions among affected parties.

Users whose claims faced rejection have been alerted via email or traditional mail with instructions on how to appeal or provide additional documents if necessary.

Claimants are encouraged to regularly check the official settlement website for updates regarding the next steps and deadlines pertaining to their participation in the payout process.

If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

Approval of the $725 Million Settlement

Judge Vince Chhabria has preliminarily approved the landmark $725 million settlement against Meta.

This marks a significant moment for claimants who argued their privacy was violated by the social media giant.

The decision paves the way for half a million users to start receiving compensation, underlining Meta’s accountability in this extensive lawsuit.

Claimants should take prompt action as deadlines approach to secure their portion of the approved funds.

Those taking part in this unprecedented settlement must adhere to strict guidelines and submit all required documents without delay.

What is the Payout Date for the Settlement?

The timeline for the distribution of payments can vary significantly, given the nature of these legal actions

A set date may not be available immediately; however, several factors influence the Meta class action lawsuit payout schedule:

  • The completion of a final approval hearing
  • Processing of all valid claims
  • Resolution of any appeals or legal challenges

As these processes unfold, it’s vital to stay informed about developments that could impact payment dates and to maintain an open line with your representing attorneys for timely updates on anticipated disbursement.

Timeline for Distribution of Payments

The settlement fund distribution process for the Meta class action lawsuit follows a clear timeline.

Court decisions and administrative preparations are key in determining when eligible claimants can expect their payments.

  • Initial Preparation: The settlement administrator will prepare to distribute funds after the final approval hearing, which is set for September 7, 2023.
  • Court Approval: The official payout process will begin assuming Judge Vince Chhabria approves at the hearing.
  • 90-Day Window: The judge’s order estimates a start to payments 90 days after October 10, marking the effective date.
  • Settlement Distribution: Eligible Facebook users who filed valid claims before August 25, 2023, will receive their share of the $725 million settlement.
  • Payout Methods: Claimants should look for payment methods such as checks or prepaid Mastercards that may be used to issue settlements.

If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

Payout Date Factors

While the timeline for the distribution of payments provides a rough estimate, several factors can alter the actual payout date.

Processing a vast number of claims requires significant time and resources.

Meta’s class action lawsuit attracted half a million hopefuls, adding complexity to the administrative process.

With each claim needing verification, this step alone can create delays in issuing payments.

Another crucial aspect is the allocation of funds set aside for payouts after deducting lawyers’ fees and other administrative costs.

High volumes of disbursements translate into intricate logistical challenges that must be navigated carefully.

Fluctuations in these variables directly influence when class members might see their settlement checks arrive.

Rejected Claims in the Meta Class Action Lawsuit

There are several steps you can take to pursue justice following a rejection.

Once you understand the grounds for rejection, you can take appropriate action.

You should receive a notice that includes specific reasons for the rejection, which could be due to missing information, inaccuracies, or insufficient evidence.

Common Reasons For Claim Rejection

omprehending the reasons behind the rejection of your claim as it helps you identify the necessary measures you need to take next.

Here are common factors that could lead to a claim being denied:

  • Incomplete documentation: Failing to provide all necessary documents or information can result in a claim rejection. Every detail matters, from your full name and contact information to specifics of how you were affected by Meta’s actions.
  • Missing the deadline: Each class action lawsuit has strict deadlines for filing claims. If you submit your application after the cut-off date, your claim won’t be considered.
  • Not meeting eligibility criteria: The lawsuit specifies who qualifies to be a class member. Those not fitting this description, such as users outside a certain timeframe or geographical location, could have their claims rejected.
  • Duplicate submissions: If multiple claims are filed under one identity or Claim ID, this might flag as fraud, leading to disqualification.
  • Directly affected vs. indirect impact: The settlement may define compensation only for those directly impacted by Meta’s alleged wrongdoing. Indirectly affected parties may not qualify for payment.
  • Discrepancies in details provided: Claims with inconsistencies or errors in personal details when compared against Facebook accounts on record may face rejection due to difficulty verifying identity.

If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

Possible avenues for further action

You might consider an appeal if you believe there was an error in the decision about your Facebook settlement claim.

Often, appeals must be filed within a specific timeframe, so acting quickly is crucial.

For those who find themselves outside of the class action parameters or facing continuous issues with Meta and Facebook, seeking individual legal counsel could provide another pathway to resolution.

Remember, exploring these options does not guarantee additional compensation but might offer a chance for your voice to be heard and concerns addressed outside of the collective lawsuit framework.

Common Reasons For Claim Rejection

Having a claim rejected can be disheartening, but it doesn’t mean the end of the road.

There are several steps you can take to pursue justice following a rejection.

Here are common factors that could lead to a claim being denied:

  • Incomplete documentation: Failing to provide all necessary documents or information can result in a claim rejection. Every detail matters, from your full name and contact information to specifics of how you were affected by Meta’s actions.
  • Missing the deadline: Each class action lawsuit has strict deadlines for filing claims. If you submit your application after the cut-off date, your claim won’t be considered.
  • Not meeting eligibility criteria: The lawsuit specifies who qualifies to be a class member. Those not fitting this description, such as users outside a certain timeframe or geographical location, could have their claims rejected.
  • Duplicate submissions: If multiple claims are filed under one identity or Claim ID, this might be flagged as fraud, leading to disqualification.
  • Directly affected vs. indirect impact: The settlement may define compensation only for those directly impacted by Meta’s alleged wrongdoing. Indirectly affected parties may not qualify for payment.
  • Discrepancies in details provided: Claims with inconsistencies or errors in personal details, when compared against Facebook accounts on record, may face rejection due to difficulty verifying identity.

If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

Possible avenues for further action

You might consider an appeal if you believe there was an error in the decision about your Facebook settlement claim.

Often, appeals must be filed within a specific timeframe, so acting quickly is crucial.

For those who find themselves outside of the class action parameters or facing continuous issues with Meta and Facebook, seeking individual legal counsel could provide another pathway to resolution.

Remember, exploring these options does not guarantee additional compensation, but might offer a chance for your voice to be heard and concerns addressed outside of the collective lawsuit framework.

What Does the Meta Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Include?

Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of social media giant Facebook, has been embroiled in several significant legal battles involving class action lawsuits.

What is the Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

The Meta class action lawsuit highlights a range of alleged violations and practices that have raised serious concerns.

Most notably, the concerns of the Meta class action lawsuit primarily involve:

  • User data privacy;
  • Discriminatory practices; and
  • Youth mental health crisis

Data Privacy Issues and Cambridge Analytica Scandal

To resolve these claims, Meta agreed to a substantial $725 million settlement, one of the largest in a privacy lawsuit.

This settlement underscored the significant impact of data privacy breaches:

  • $725 million settlement in response to data privacy breach allegations;
  • The case involved claims against Facebook’s handling of user data and third-party access;
  • One of the largest settlements in a privacy-related lawsuit.

Discriminatory Practices in Job Advertisements

Another notable class action lawsuit against Meta involves allegations of discrimination in job advertisement practices.

The AARP Foundation, along with REAL Women in Trucking, alleged that the technology used by Meta to determine which job ads are shown on Facebook discriminates against women and older job seekers.

The Meta class action lawsuit highlights the growing concern over algorithmic bias and the need for fairness in digital advertising practices​:

  • Allegations of discriminatory practices in job ads;
  • The lawsuit focuses on the impact on women and older individuals;
  • Raises concerns about algorithmic bias in digital advertising.

Inferred Location Data Lawsuit

Meta also faced a lawsuit alleging the company improperly inferred the location of Facebook users in the United States through their IP addresses, even when users had turned off location services on their devices.

This case, which led to a $37.5 million settlement, highlights issues surrounding user consent and the extent to which tech companies can infer personal data from users’ online activities.

Meta denied any liability or wrongdoing in this matter​:

  • $37.5 million settlement for inferred location data lawsuit;
  • Concerns over user consent and data inference practices;
  • Meta denies liability, highlighting the complexities of digital privacy laws.

The Meta class action lawsuit reflects a broader trend of increasing legal scrutiny on tech giants, particularly regarding user privacy, data handling, and algorithmic practices.

These cases underscore the need for more transparent and ethical practices in the tech industry, as well as the potential legal risks companies face when user trust is compromised.

Conclusion

Understanding your eligibility and filing a claim are the most important actions to take regarding the Meta class action lawsuit.

The impact of this settlement extends far beyond financial compensation; it underscores the significance of user privacy in the digital age.

With $725 million on the line, taking action could result in meaningful reimbursement for those affected by privacy violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Meta Class Action Lawsuit About?

    The Meta class action lawsuit refers to a series of legal actions against Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly known as Facebook) alleging various issues such as defective product design, social media addiction and mental health issues, exploitation of children’s vulnerabilities, and mishandling of user data, including location data privacy.

    If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

  • Who Are the Parties Involved in the Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

    The parties involved in the Meta class action lawsuit are Meta Platforms, Inc., as the defendant, and a class of plaintiffs comprising current and former Facebook users who claim that their private information was shared illegally with third parties.

    If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

  • What is the Current Status of the Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

    As of 2023, there have been several settlements, including a $725 million payout agreed upon by Meta to resolve claims of sharing user data without permission.

    Other ongoing legal actions involve allegations of design flaws leading to child sexual abuse material on Meta’s platforms and the exploitation of children for corporate profit.

    If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

  • What Are the Potential Outcomes of the Meta Class Action Lawsuit?

    Potential outcomes include the execution of final settlement agreements, court approvals, and distribution of settlement amounts to claimants.

    Some claimants may receive less than $100 each, and the exact terms of the settlements are subject to the court’s approval.

    If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

  • What Is the Total Amount That Meta Has Agreed to Settle For?

    Meta has agreed to settle the class action lawsuit for $725 million.

    This settlement represents a significant financial commitment from Meta to resolve the allegations of privacy violations.

    The final court approval is pending, and Meta has admitted no wrongdoing as part of this settlement.

    If you’ve experienced severe mental health issues after prolonged social media use, contact TruLawsuit Info using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.

Written By:
Picture of Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO

With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three.  She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.

In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.

In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!

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Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at Tru Lawsuit Info, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

To do this, we actively work to connect them with attorneys who are experts in litigating cases similar to theirs.

Would you like our help?