A recent Facebook class action alleged that the social network improperly used facial recognition software to tag photos of users. The facial recognition software recommended faces for tagging with a name without the person’s knowledge or consent. Without consent, people were tagged without their knowledge or consent, making them easy targets for stalkers or snoopers. In response, Facebook changed its photo-tagging system. Now, if you’re an Illinois resident, you can find out if you’re eligible for a $300 class-action settlement.
The next court hearing in the case is scheduled for June 4. If you are a member of a class-action lawsuit filed against Facebook, you still have time to submit your claim. Although the deadline to submit claims is approaching quickly, the court has allowed the social media giant 35 days to send notifications and pay out a $650 million settlement to 1.4 million Illinois residents. To qualify for a payout, you must have used Facebook in Illinois for at least 183 days after June 11, 2011 to be eligible for the settlement. And you must file your claim form by Nov. 23, 2020, if you want to receive your settlement check.
However, the Facebook privacy case is still being appealed by potential class members. Objector-intervenors have argued that the proposed settlement does not provide any benefit to class members, because it allows Facebook to continue its practice while burying the notice in its privacy policy. While Facebook may win the appeal, the court must also consider whether the proposed settlement is fair to class members. Once the case has gone through the appeals process, a final ruling is likely.
