In the wake of a December 2022 data breach, Pinnacle Propane is offering a settlement for current and former employees impacted by the incident.
The settlement provides eligible individuals with compensation of up to $2,000, identity theft protection services, and additional benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know about filing your claim, eligibility requirements, and the steps involved.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Pinnacle Propane data breach settlement, you must meet specific criteria:
- Who Is Eligible? Employees of Pinnacle Propane at the time of the data breach and those notified about the breach in June 2023.
- Affected Data: Sensitive information, including names, addresses, and Social Security numbers, was exposed.
If you fall within these criteria, you can move forward with the claims process.
Benefits
The settlement offers a range of benefits designed to mitigate the impact of the breach.
Financial Compensation
Eligible individuals can receive:
- Up to $2,000: For documented financial losses, such as fraud-related expenses.
- Lost Time Reimbursement: Up to six hours compensated at $40/hour (maximum of $240).
- Alternative Cash Payment: A flat $100 for those without documentation of losses.
Credit Monitoring and Protection
Claimants will also receive:
- Three Years of Credit Monitoring: Detect and prevent identity theft with regular alerts.
- Identity Restoration Services: Assistance if your identity is stolen.
- $1 Million Identity Theft Insurance: Coverage for related losses.
These measures help safeguard against potential future issues stemming from the breach.
Filing Your Claim
Filing a claim is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure you qualify based on employment and breach notification.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
Collect necessary documentation to support your claim, such as:
- Receipts for financial losses or fraudulent activity.
- Statements or proof of out-of-pocket expenses.
Step 3: Submit the Claim Form
Visit PinnaclePropaneDataSettlement.com to access and complete the claim form. You can submit your claim:
- Online: Upload your form and supporting documents.
- By Mail: Send completed forms to:mathematicaCopy code
Pinnacle Propane Data Settlement c/o Settlement Administrator P.O. Box 2009 Chanhassen, MN 55317-2009
Step 4: Await Approval
The final settlement hearing is scheduled for December 19, 2024. Approved claimants will receive compensation following the hearing.
Importance of Credit Monitoring
Credit monitoring is a crucial benefit of this settlement. It allows individuals to:
- Detect suspicious activities early, like fraudulent credit inquiries.
- Take proactive measures against identity theft.
- Monitor and improve credit scores over time.
The inclusion of credit monitoring ensures long-term protection for affected employees.
Why It Matters
Data breaches highlight the growing need for stronger cybersecurity measures. This settlement serves as both a compensation mechanism for victims and a reminder of corporate accountability.
By investing in better cybersecurity policies and tools, businesses can prevent breaches and protect sensitive data.
If you’ve been affected by the Pinnacle Propane breach, don’t miss the December 13, 2024, deadline to file your claim. It’s a step toward financial recovery and future protection.
