In recent years, Instagram has faced several class-action lawsuits over its handling of user data and alleged violations of the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). If you're an Instagram user who believes your biometric data was collected or used without your consent, you might be eligible for a settlement. Here's how to file your Instagram BIPA settlement claim in 5 easy steps.
Understanding the Instagram BIPA Settlement
Before diving into the claim-filing process, it's essential to understand the background of the settlement. In 2020, Instagram (owned by Facebook) agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit that alleged the company had collected and stored users' biometric data (such as facial recognition data) without their consent, in violation of Illinois' BIPA. The settlement provides for monetary compensation to eligible class members.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
To be eligible for the settlement, you must have used Instagram's facial recognition feature (e.g., to tag friends or family members in photos) while residing in Illinois. You can check your Instagram settings to see if you've used the feature. Additionally, you must have created an Instagram account before August 24, 2020.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
To file your claim, you'll need to provide some personal and account-related information. Make sure you have the following:
- Your Instagram username or account ID
- Your name and mailing address
- Your date of birth
- A valid email address
Step 3: Submit Your Claim Form
Once you've gathered the required information, you can submit your claim form online or by mail. To submit online, follow these steps:
- Visit the settlement website ()
- Click on the "File a Claim" button
- Fill out the claim form with the required information
- Review and submit your claim
To submit by mail, download and print the claim form from the settlement website, fill it out, and mail it to the address provided.
Step 4: Review and Confirm Your Claim
After submitting your claim, review it carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete. If you need to make changes, you can do so before the claims deadline. Once you've confirmed your claim, you'll receive a confirmation email or letter.
Step 5: Wait for Your Settlement Payment
After the claims deadline passes, the settlement administrator will review and process all claims. If your claim is approved, you'll receive a settlement payment, which is expected to be around $20-$40. Payments will be made via check or digital payment, depending on the settlement administrator's instructions.
What to Expect After Filing Your Claim
After filing your claim, you can expect the following:
- A confirmation email or letter acknowledging your claim submission
- A review and processing period, during which the settlement administrator will verify your claim information
- A settlement payment, if your claim is approved
Conclusion
Filing your Instagram BIPA settlement claim is a straightforward process that requires some basic information and a few minutes of your time. By following these 5 easy steps, you can claim your share of the settlement and receive compensation for Instagram's alleged BIPA violations. Remember to review and confirm your claim carefully to ensure you receive your settlement payment.
Don't forget to share this article with your friends and family who might be eligible for the settlement. If you have any questions or concerns, leave a comment below, and we'll do our best to help.
FAQs
What is the Instagram BIPA settlement?
+The Instagram BIPA settlement is a class-action lawsuit settlement that provides monetary compensation to eligible Instagram users who had their biometric data (such as facial recognition data) collected or used without their consent, in violation of Illinois' BIPA.
Who is eligible for the settlement?
+To be eligible, you must have used Instagram's facial recognition feature while residing in Illinois and created an Instagram account before August 24, 2020.
How much will I receive from the settlement?
+The settlement payment is expected to be around $20-$40, depending on the number of eligible claimants and the settlement administrator's instructions.