California residents are now eligible to claim between $19 and $48 from a $27.5 million settlement as part of the Thomson Reuters CLEAR Data Privacy Class Action Settlement.
If you lived in California anytime between December 3, 2016, and October 31, 2024, you might qualify for compensation due to allegations of unauthorized data sales.
This guide outlines what the settlement is about, who qualifies, and how to file your claim.
Thomson Reuters CLEAR Data Privacy Settlement
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $27.5 million |
| Eligibility | California residents (Dec 3, 2016 – Oct 31, 2024) |
| Potential Payment | $19 to $48 per valid claim |
| Claim Deadline | December 27, 2024 |
| Proof of Residency | No documentation required beyond attestation |
| Final Approval Hearing | February 13, 2025 |
| Official Website | clearprivacysettlement.com |
What Is the CLEAR Data Privacy Lawsuit About?
Thomson Reuters was accused of using its CLEAR database to sell personal data of California residents without consent. This violates the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and other state privacy laws.
Examples of potentially sold data include:
- Names and addresses
- Social Security numbers
- Employment records
- Dates of birth and other identifiers
While the CLEAR database serves legitimate purposes like background checks for law enforcement and businesses, this lawsuit highlights concerns about the misuse of personal information.
Why Does This Settlement Matter?
This settlement addresses crucial issues:
- Privacy Protection: It holds corporations accountable for selling personal data without consent.
- Legal Precedent: It strengthens enforcement of California’s robust privacy laws.
- Compensation: Affected residents receive financial relief.
- Increased Transparency: Thomson Reuters must now adopt stricter privacy measures for Californians.
Who Qualifies for Compensation?
You’re eligible for compensation if:
- Residency: You lived in California anytime between December 3, 2016, and October 31, 2024.
- Age: You were 18 years or older during this time.
The process is straightforward—you only need to attest to your eligibility under penalty of perjury. No additional documentation is required.
How to File a Claim
Follow these steps to file your claim:
1. Visit the Official Website
Go to clearprivacysettlement.com.
2. Complete the Claim Form
You can submit your claim:
- Online: Fill out the digital form directly on the website.
- By Mail: Download, complete, and mail the form to the address provided.
3. Provide Your Information
Include:
- Your full name
- Current mailing address
- Email and phone number
4. Confirm Eligibility
Attest, under penalty of perjury, that you meet the residency requirements.
5. Submit Your Claim
Ensure your submission is completed online or received by mail before December 27, 2024.
How Much Will You Get?
The exact amount depends on the number of valid claims submitted:
- Estimated payout: $19–$48 per claimant.
- Potential for higher payouts: Fewer claims mean more money per individual.
Payments will be distributed after the final approval hearing on February 13, 2025.
How This Settlement Compares
This settlement reflects growing attention to privacy violations. Other notable settlements include:
- Facebook Biometric Data Settlement: $397 per person.
- Equifax Data Breach Settlement: Up to $125 per person.
While the payouts in the CLEAR settlement are smaller, it sets an important precedent for companies handling sensitive information.
Tips for Filing Your Claim
- File Early: Avoid delays by submitting your claim as soon as possible.
- Double-Check Details: Ensure your contact information is accurate.
- Track Updates: Save the website (clearprivacysettlement.com) for updates.
This settlement is an opportunity to hold companies accountable and secure compensation for privacy violations. Don’t miss out—file your claim today!
