If you received a notification regarding a data breach involving Navvis & Company, LLC, you may be eligible for compensation and protective services. This legal settlement follows a cyber security incident that occurred in mid-2023, affecting the personal and protected health information of many individuals associated with SSM Health and other partner organizations.
Navvis, a health care services provider, recently reached a settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit regarding this incident. The settlement aims to provide financial relief and credit monitoring to those whose data may have been compromised. Understanding your rights and the steps required to file a claim is essential to ensuring you receive the benefits you are owed.
Understanding the Navvis Data Breach Incident
In July 2023, Navvis identified a cyber security incident that involved unauthorized access to its network environments. Following an internal investigation, it was determined that an unauthorized party gained access to certain files containing sensitive information between July 12 and July 25, 2023.
The information involved varied by individual but generally included names, dates of birth, medical record numbers, patient account numbers, and clinical information such as diagnoses and provider names. In some instances, Social Security numbers and health insurance information were also included in the affected files.
Navvis provides services to several health systems, most notably SSM Health. Consequently, patients of these health systems were the primary group affected by the breach. While Navvis has stated there is no evidence that the information has been misused for identity theft, the settlement was established to provide a safety net for those impacted.
Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
The settlement is designed for a specific group of people known as the “Settlement Class.” You are generally considered a member of this class if you were sent a notice letter from Navvis (or a partner like SSM Health) stating that your personal information or protected health information was impacted by the data breach.
If you are unsure of your status, you should look for a physical mailer or email containing a “Unique ID.” This ID is the primary way the settlement administrator verifies your eligibility. If you did not receive a notice but believe you were affected, you may need to contact the settlement administrator to verify your information against the official records.
The Two Main Categories of Class Members
Eligibility is often divided into two tiers based on the type of information compromised. Those whose Social Security numbers were involved may be eligible for different or additional benefits compared to those whose medical information was involved without a Social Security number. Reviewing your specific notice letter will clarify which category applies to you.
Available Benefits and Compensation
The Navvis settlement offers several types of benefits. Depending on your situation, you can choose the option that best fits your needs. It is important to note that you must submit a valid claim form to receive any of these benefits.
1. Out-of-Pocket Expense Reimbursement
Class members can claim reimbursement for documented losses resulting from the data breach. This includes “Ordinary Losses” up to a certain cap (often around $250). Examples of these expenses include:
- Bank fees or overdraft charges.
- Costs for credit reports or credit monitoring purchased after the breach.
- Postage, mileage, and phone charges related to resolving issues from the breach.
Additionally, if you experienced “Extraordinary Losses” related to actual identity theft or fraud, you may be eligible for a much higher reimbursement amount, potentially up to $5,000. These claims require extensive documentation, such as police reports or bank statements showing the fraudulent activity.
2. Compensation for Lost Time
The settlement recognizes that dealing with a data breach takes time. You can claim compensation for time spent addressing issues related to the incident. Usually, this is calculated at a set hourly rate (such as $25 per hour) for a limited number of hours. In most cases, you can self-certify this time without needing a detailed log, provided the time was spent on activities like monitoring accounts or communicating with financial institutions.
3. Credit Monitoring and Identity Theft Protection
One of the most valuable benefits is the offer of free credit monitoring services. These services typically include credit surveillance and identity restoration assistance. This is particularly helpful for individuals who want long-term peace of mind regarding their financial security.
4. Alternative Cash Payment
In some settlement structures, class members who do not wish to claim specific expenses can opt for a flat-fee “Alternative Cash Payment.” This amount is usually distributed pro-rata, meaning the final value depends on how many people file a claim. If many people apply, the individual payment may be smaller; if few apply, it could be larger.
How to File a Claim Step-by-Step
Filing a claim is a straightforward process, but it must be done accurately to avoid rejection. Follow these steps to ensure your claim is processed correctly.
Step 1: Locate Your Unique ID
Your notice letter contains a Unique ID and PIN. This code is essential for accessing the online claim portal. If you lost your notice, you might be able to find it by searching your email for “Navvis Settlement” or by calling the settlement administrator’s help line.
Step 2: Choose Your Benefit Type
Decide whether you want to claim specific expenses, lost time, or the alternative cash payment. You cannot usually “double dip” on certain benefits, so read the claim form instructions carefully to see which combinations are allowed.
Step 3: Gather Documentation
If you are claiming out-of-pocket expenses or extraordinary losses, gather your receipts, invoices, or bank statements. Digital copies (PDFs or clear photos) are required for online submissions. For lost time claims, be prepared to provide a brief description of what you did during those hours.
Step 4: Submit the Claim Form
The most efficient way to file is through the official settlement website. Enter your Unique ID, fill out the required fields, upload your documents, and submit. You should receive a confirmation number once the submission is complete. Keep this number for your records.
Important Deadlines to Remember
Class action settlements operate on strict timelines. If you miss a deadline, you forfeit your right to claim benefits or object to the settlement. While specific dates can shift due to court schedules, you should be aware of the following milestones:
- Claim Submission Deadline: This is the final date to submit your form. Claims submitted after this date will not be paid.
- Exclusion Deadline: If you wish to sue Navvis individually for this breach, you must “opt out” or exclude yourself by this date. Doing so means you cannot receive any money from this settlement.
- Objection Deadline: If you disagree with the terms of the settlement, you must file a written objection with the court by this date.
- Final Approval Hearing: The date the court decides whether the settlement is fair and reasonable. Payments are usually sent out only after the court grants final approval and any appeals are resolved.
What Happens if You Do Nothing?
If you do nothing, you will receive no benefits from the settlement. Furthermore, you will give up your right to ever sue Navvis or SSM Health regarding this specific data breach in the future. Because the settlement provides a release of claims, participating or staying silent both result in you being bound by the court’s decision. Therefore, it is almost always in your best interest to file a claim if you were affected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this settlement legitimate?
Yes, the Navvis data breach settlement is a court-approved legal proceeding. It was established to resolve litigation following the July 2023 incident. Official notices are sent to affected individuals to inform them of their legal rights.
How much money will I actually receive?
The final amount depends on the type of claim you file and the total number of participants. Expense reimbursements are usually paid at the full documented amount up to the cap. Pro-rata cash payments fluctuate based on the remaining settlement fund after expenses are paid.
When will I get my payment?
Payments are typically distributed several months after the Final Approval Hearing. If there are appeals to the settlement, the process can take longer. It is common for payments to be sent out 6 to 12 months after the claim deadline.
Conclusion
The Navvis data breach settlement provides a path for affected individuals to recover costs and protect their identities. By taking a few minutes to locate your notice and fill out the claim form, you can ensure that you are compensated for the inconvenience and potential risks caused by the security incident. Don’t wait until the last minute—check your eligibility and submit your claim today to secure your benefits. For more information on protecting your digital identity, explore our other articles on data privacy and consumer rights.