A Google class-action settlement worth $23 million is underway, and if you used Google Search between 2006 and 2013, you might be eligible for a portion of this settlement. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the lawsuit, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for the settlement.
Background of the Google Lawsuit
The Google class-action settlement is the result of a legal dispute accusing the search giant of improperly sharing user search information with third-party websites and companies. Despite denying any liability or wrongdoing tied to the allegations, Google has agreed to pay $23 million to settle the lawsuit.
Timeline of the Lawsuit
- The lawsuit covers the period between Oct. 26, 2006 and Sept. 30, 2013.
- The final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for Oct. 12, 2023.
Eligibility Criteria for the Google Settlement
To be eligible for the Google class-action settlement, you must have:
- Used Google Search
- Clicked on a search result
- Done so at any time between Oct. 26, 2006 and Sept. 30, 2013.
How to Apply for the Google Class-Action Settlement
Submitting a Claim
To participate in the settlement, you must submit a claim by July 31, 2023. If you received a notification about the settlement and were given a class member ID, you can use it to submit a claim form at the settlement website.
If you didn’t receive a notification, you’ll first need to register for a class member ID on the settlement site. After that, you can submit a claim form online. Alternatively, you can contact the Settlement Administrator to request a form by:
- Calling toll-free 1-833-512-2306
- Emailing info@refererheadersettlement.com
- Mailing your request to In re Google Referrer Header Privacy Settlement, c/o Kroll Settlement Administration, P.O. Box 225391, New York, NY 10150-5391
As part of submitting a claim, you have to attest that you submitted a search to Google and clicked on a search result between Oct. 26, 2006 and Sept. 30, 2013.
Potential Payout from the Google Settlement
According to the official settlement website, each person who files an approved claim may get around $7.70. The final amount will depend on how many other users submit valid claims.
Settlement payments will be distributed after the court grants final approval of the settlement and after any appeals are resolved.
Consequences of Not Submitting a Claim
If you choose not to submit a claim, you will:
- Not receive a payment from the Google class-action settlement
- Forfeit your right to sue Google about the legal issues in this matter, according to the settlement website
Other Google Lawsuits and Settlements
Pending Settlements
- Nexus 6P Smartphone Class Action: The website for this class action is now active. More information can be found here.
Closed Settlements
Some of Google’s past closed settlements include:
- Apple, Google Anti-Poaching Antitrust Class Action Settlement
- Google Slide Disco Text Message Class Action Lawsuit Settlement
- Google Adwords Class Action Lawsuit Settlement
- Google Book Class Action Lawsuit Settlement
Google Class Action Investigations
As of now, there are no ongoing class-action investigations against Google.
Google Class Action Settlement Checks Mailed
High-Tech Employee Class Action Settlement Checks have been mailed to eligible recipients.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need assistance with the Google class-action settlement, you can reach out to the Settlement Administrator using the information mentioned earlier in the article.
Conclusion
The Google class-action settlement is an opportunity for eligible users to receive compensation for the alleged improper sharing of user search information with third parties. By following the eligibility criteria and claim submission process outlined in this article, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Keep in mind that the final approval hearing is scheduled for Oct. 12, 2023, and payments will be distributed after the court grants final approval and any appeals are resolved.
