Google Referrer Header Settlement Payout Date, Amount, Eligibility and Status

Settlement Payout Begins!

News: As of January 26, 2024, payouts are being distributed as part of a settlement related to Google’s Referrer Header and privacy concerns. This settlement provides an opportunity for individuals who utilized Google between 2006 and 2013 to receive compensation through a class-action case overseen by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

Payout Notification Process

Claimants whose claims have been approved and who choose electronic payment methods can expect notifications from platforms such as PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or the recipient bank. For virtual Mastercard payments, communication will come from [email protected]. It’s important for eligible individuals to monitor their email or SMS for these notifications.

Estimated Payout Amount

The estimated amount of $7.70 per accepted claim, as mentioned on the Kroll Referrer Header Settlement website, is subject to potential changes. The final payout to claimants will depend on various factors, including the total number of claims, settlement administrative expenses, and legal fees. Eligible individuals should stay informed through official communication channels for any updates on the settlement amount.

Settlement Details

The specific payout for each class member will be influenced by the total number of claims submitted, and as stated, the estimated amount is approximately $7.70 per individual. It’s crucial to recognize that the settlement does not constitute an admission of guilt by Google, as the company disputes all allegations associated with the case. Individuals involved in the class action should stay updated on official communications regarding the settlement process.

Who is Eligible to Submit a Claim?

The class-action lawsuit covers individuals who clicked on a Google search link between October 25, 2006, and September 30, 2013. Google has committed to allocating $23 million to cover legal expenses, litigation costs, settlement administration costs, payments to class representatives, and payments to settlement class members who submit valid claims as part of the settlement agreement. Claimants who fall within the specified class period and meet the criteria can participate in the settlement process and potentially receive compensation.

How to Submit a Claim

To submit a claim, individuals must obtain a Class Member ID and complete a registration form.

Claimants can access their claim form and choose their preferred payment method. The completed form can then be printed and mailed to the settlement administrator at In re Google Referrer Header Privacy Settlement c/o Kroll Settlement Administration, P.O. Box 225391, New York, NY, 10150-5391. Alternatively, claimants can submit their forms online.

Claim Submission Deadline

The deadline for submitting claims in the Referrer Header settlement is July 31, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. PT. Claimants can submit their claims either online or by mail. Additionally, this date serves as the deadline for contesting the settlement or requesting exclusion from it. It is essential for eligible individuals to take action within this timeframe if they wish to participate in the settlement or pursue alternative options.

Payout Distribution

Payments to eligible claimants will be distributed after the final approval hearing, set for October 12, 2023. However, it’s important to be aware that the appeals process could potentially introduce delays in the disbursement of funds. Claimants should keep track of updates and be prepared for possible adjustments to the payment timeline depending on the outcome of the approval hearing and any subsequent appeals.

Number of Eligible Individuals

Around 2.5 million individuals who clicked on a Google Search link from October 25, 2006, to September 30, 2013, could be eligible to receive $7.16 each as compensation for privacy violations. The settlement, which has obtained final approval from US District Judge Edward Davila of the Northern District of California, resolves a privacy lawsuit initially filed against Google on October 25, 2010.

Objections to the Settlement

The terms of this settlement were negotiated last year and made public in June. Google asserts its innocence and denies any misconduct in this agreement. However, not all plaintiffs involved in the lawsuit are content with the settlement. Clifford Weiler, a retired lawyer and claimant, has raised objections to the modest compensation amount. He contends that the seriousness of the alleged infractions, coupled with Google’s size, earnings, and the duration of the wrongdoing, should warrant higher compensation.

FAQs

1. Who qualifies to file a claim?

All residents of the United States who utilized Google Search and clicked on a result between October 26, 2006, and September 30, 2013, meet the eligibility criteria for submitting a claim in the settlement.

2. What is the Class Member ID, and how can I acquire it?

The Class Member ID serves as a unique identifier for claimants and can be obtained by registering on the settlement website. To obtain it, claimants need to provide an email address and phone number during the registration process. Once registered, claimants will receive their Class Member ID and registration confirmation via email.

3. When can I anticipate receiving my compensation?

The distribution of payments is scheduled after the final approval hearing on October 12, 2023. However, potential delays may occur due to the appeals process impacting the disbursement of funds.