Canadian residents who held Yahoo or Rogers accounts during a period marked by multiple data breaches can now claim compensation as part of a $20 million class-action settlement. This agreement offers financial reimbursement and other benefits to individuals whose accounts were compromised during these security lapses.
Eligible claimants must act promptly and submit their claims before the deadline to receive compensation for the privacy violations.
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Background: Yahoo’s Data Security Issues
The lawsuit contends that Yahoo failed to implement robust data protection measures, leaving user information vulnerable to unauthorized access. According to the allegations, millions of users’ personal information, such as usernames, email addresses, and potentially more sensitive details, were exposed due to Yahoo’s inadequate security protocols.
Between 2013 and 2016, multiple breaches underscored serious weaknesses in Yahoo’s data protection systems, sparking significant privacy concerns among account holders. Although Yahoo denies any wrongdoing, the $20 million settlement addresses user grievances and compensates for the mishandling of sensitive data.
Who Qualifies for the Settlement?
To be eligible for this compensation, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Held a Yahoo or Rogers account between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2016.
- Reside in Canada.
- Did not opt out of the class-action settlement.
Account holders meeting these conditions can file claims to receive compensation for the breaches they were impacted by, whether or not they experienced direct financial loss.
Compensation Options for Eligible Claimants
Claimants have various options under the settlement, depending on their specific circumstances. The benefits include cash payments, credit monitoring services, reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses, and partial refunds for Yahoo premium services.
1. Cash Payments
Claimants may receive up to $125 per breach they were affected by, with a maximum payout of $375 for multiple breaches. This option compensates users for the inconvenience and risks posed by the data breaches.
2. Credit Monitoring Services
As an alternative, users can opt for one year of credit monitoring services at no additional cost. This benefit aims to help account holders safeguard their financial and personal information from future identity theft or other security threats.
3. Reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket Costs
Account holders can also claim up to $25,000 for documented expenses incurred due to the breaches. These expenses may include:
- Costs for identity theft protection services.
- Credit monitoring fees.
- Other expenditures related to mitigating potential risks from the breaches.
4. Partial Reimbursement for Premium Yahoo Services
If you subscribed to premium Yahoo services, you could receive up to 25% of your subscription costs during the affected period. This includes services such as:
- Ad-free Yahoo email.
- Yahoo/Aabaco Small Business services.
- Other paid subscription-based Yahoo services.
Compensation Options Overview
| Compensation Type | Details | Maximum Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Payment | Up to $125 per breach (maximum of $375 for multiple breaches). | $375 |
| Credit Monitoring Services | One year of free credit monitoring. | Full-year (no cost to user). |
| Out-of-Pocket Reimbursement | Covers documented expenses like identity theft protection services. | $25,000 |
| Premium Service Refund | Partial refund of subscription costs for Yahoo’s premium services. | 25% of costs incurred. |
What Happens if Claims Exceed the Settlement Fund?
The $20 million settlement fund covers all claims, but if valid claims surpass this amount, cash payouts will be proportionately reduced. In such cases, claimants might receive less than the full $125 per breach. However, those opting for credit monitoring services will still receive the full year of coverage, regardless of the number of claims.
Key Dates and Claim Submission Process
Deadline to Submit a Claim
Eligible individuals must file their claims by December 27, 2024. After this date, no further compensation claims will be entertained under this settlement, and account holders will lose the right to any future legal action related to these data breaches.
How to File a Claim
To initiate a claim, visit the settlement’s official website, YahooClassAction.com, and complete the online Claim Form. The site provides:
- Step-by-step filing instructions.
- Required documentation details.
- FAQs addressing common concerns.
Missed Deadline Consequences
Failure to submit a claim by the deadline will result in forfeiture of all rights to compensation and the inability to pursue legal action concerning these incidents in the future.
Considerations for Claimants
When deciding between the available compensation options, eligible individuals should evaluate their circumstances carefully:
- Choose cash or credit monitoring services if you lack documented financial losses.
- Opt for reimbursement of expenses if you incurred costs for identity theft protection or credit monitoring due to the breaches.
- Review premium service refunds if you subscribed to Yahoo’s paid offerings during the affected period.
Where to Get More Information
For additional details about the settlement, eligibility, and claim process, visit YahooClassAction.com or contact the toll-free hotline at 1-866-808-8075. Representatives can provide personalized guidance to ensure you understand your rights and options under this settlement.
FAQs
What types of accounts are covered under this settlement?
The settlement covers Yahoo and Rogers accounts held by Canadian residents during the period between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2016.
How much can I receive as a cash payment?
Eligible claimants can receive up to $125 per breach, with a maximum of $375 for multiple breaches.
What documentation is required for out-of-pocket reimbursement?
You must provide proof of expenses, such as receipts for identity theft protection services or other relevant costs directly related to the breaches.
