If you have visited the Forbes website to watch videos in recent years, you may be eligible for a portion of a $2.85 million class action settlement. The lawsuit, centered on the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA), alleges that Forbes shared user video-viewing data with Facebook without proper consent. This settlement provides a way for affected users to receive compensation for potential privacy violations. To participate, you must understand the eligibility requirements and follow the specific steps to file a claim before the established deadline.
Understanding the Forbes VPPA Lawsuit
The legal action against Forbes Media LLC was initiated by plaintiffs who claimed the company violated federal law by disclosing their personal information to Meta (formerly Facebook). Specifically, the lawsuit alleged that Forbes used a piece of code known as the Meta Pixel to track what videos users watched on Forbes.com. This data was then allegedly sent to Facebook along with the user’s unique Facebook ID.
Under the Video Privacy Protection Act, a law originally passed in 1988, companies are prohibited from sharing a person’s video-viewing history with third parties without their explicit, written consent. While the law was created in the era of physical video rentals, courts have increasingly applied it to modern digital streaming and online video content.
Forbes has denied any wrongdoing and maintains that it did not violate the law. However, both parties agreed to a $2.85 million settlement to avoid the costs and uncertainties of a prolonged trial. This fund is intended to pay for administrative costs, legal fees, and, most importantly, cash payments to eligible class members.
Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
Not everyone who visited Forbes.com is eligible for a payment. The settlement class is specifically defined by the nature of the interaction and the timeframe involved. You are likely a member of the settlement class if you meet the following criteria:
- Location: You must be a resident of the United States.
- Platform Usage: You visited the Forbes.com website and viewed videos on the platform.
- Facebook Account: You were a Facebook user during the time you viewed the videos.
- Timeframe: Your video-viewing activity occurred between April 1, 2021, and April 29, 2024.
If you received an email or a notice via mail regarding this settlement, it is likely because Forbes records indicate you may be a class member. However, even if you did not receive a direct notification, you can still submit a claim if you believe you meet the criteria listed above.
How to File a Claim for Compensation
Filing a claim is a straightforward process that can typically be completed online. It is the only way to receive a cash payment from the settlement fund. If you do nothing, you will not receive a payment, and you will give up your right to sue Forbes individually for these specific claims in the future.
Step 1: Locate Your Notice ID
If you received an email or postcard about the settlement, it should contain a unique Notice ID and Confirmation Code. Having these makes the filing process much faster, as it pre-populates your information. If you do not have these codes, you can still file a claim manually by providing your contact information and declaring under penalty of perjury that you meet the eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Visit the Official Settlement Website
To ensure your information is secure, always use the official settlement administrator’s website. You will find a link to the online claim form there. Be wary of third-party sites that ask for a fee to file your claim; legitimate class action settlements never charge a fee to file a claim.
Step 3: Complete the Claim Form
You will be asked to provide your name, current mailing address, and the email address associated with your Facebook account. You will also need to choose your preferred method of payment. Most modern settlements offer digital payment options like PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle, in addition to traditional paper checks.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Timing is critical in legal settlements. The deadline to submit a claim for the Forbes VPPA settlement is generally set for late 2024. Be sure to check the official site for the exact date and time. Late submissions are almost never accepted, regardless of the reason.
How Much Will the Payment Be?
The exact amount each person receives depends on the total number of valid claims submitted. The $2.85 million settlement fund must first cover the costs of notifying the public, the fees for the settlement administrator, and any court-approved attorney fees and service awards for the original plaintiffs.
The remaining amount, known as the “Net Settlement Fund,” is then divided equally among all class members who submitted valid claims. Because millions of people may be eligible, individual payments are often modest. Estimates suggest that payments may range from $10 to $50, though this can fluctuate significantly based on participation rates.
Key Dates to Remember
Aside from the claim deadline, there are other important dates in the settlement timeline. Understanding these helps you manage your expectations regarding when you might actually receive your money.
- Opt-Out Deadline: If you wish to sue Forbes yourself, you must formally “opt out” of the settlement. This deadline is usually the same as the claim deadline.
- Objection Deadline: If you agree with the settlement but disagree with specific terms (such as the attorney fees), you can file an objection with the court.
- Final Approval Hearing: A judge must give final approval to the settlement after reviewing all claims and objections. This hearing is typically scheduled several months after the claim deadline.
- Distribution of Funds: Payments are usually distributed 30 to 90 days after the court grants final approval and any potential appeals are resolved.
The Importance of Digital Privacy
This settlement serves as a reminder of how frequently personal data is tracked and shared in the digital age. While class action settlements provide some level of recourse, taking proactive steps to protect your privacy is always a good idea. You can limit tracking by adjusting your privacy settings on social media platforms, using browser extensions that block trackers, and regularly clearing your cookies.
The Video Privacy Protection Act remains a vital tool in ensuring that your entertainment choices remain private. As technology evolves, these legal protections continue to be tested and refined through cases like the one involving Forbes.
Conclusion
The Forbes VPPA settlement offers a clear path for users to claim compensation if their video-viewing privacy was compromised. By identifying your eligibility and submitting a claim form before the deadline, you can ensure you receive your share of the settlement fund. While the individual payments may not be large, participating in these settlements holds companies accountable for how they handle consumer data. To stay informed about other ways to protect your digital footprint or manage your online services, explore our other guides on consumer rights and technology safety.