Meta Begins Disbursing $725 Million Privacy Settlement to Facebook Users

Lead Meta starts distributing a $725 million class-action settlement to eligible Facebook users in the U.S. for unauthorized data sharing spanning 2007-2022, with payments rolling out this week.

Nut Graf The settlement, finalized August 27, settles claims that Facebook (now Meta) improperly shared user data with third parties without consent. Millions who filed approved claims will receive payouts based on how long they maintained active accounts, underscoring persistent concerns over user privacy in social media.

Settlement Background Meta agreed to the historic settlement after consolidated lawsuits alleged it disclosed personal information-including data accessed by Cambridge Analytica-to advertisers, app developers and data brokers. The class period covers May 24, 2007, through December 22, 2022, and marks one of the largest privacy-related class actions in U.S. history.

Payout Details

  • Total fund: $725 million, net of attorney fees and administrative costs.
  • Claimants evaluated by account-active months; one “point” per month, up to 188 points.
  • Minimum payout: $4.89 for 24 months of active use.
  • Maximum payout: $38.36 for full 188-month participation.
  • Average payment: approximately $29.43.

Distribution Timeline Meta’s settlement administrator, Angeion, began issuing payments in early September and will continue over the next ten weeks. Approved claimants receive an email notice three to four days before disbursement, with options including PayPal, Venmo, direct deposit, check or prepaid Mastercard.

Next Steps for Claimants Claimants should monitor the “Facebook User Privacy Settlement Administrator” email for status updates and payment notifications. Those without approved claims will not receive communications and cannot submit late filings. Continuous check of spam folders is advised to avoid missing critical emails.

Subhead Further Questions? Visit the official settlement website for FAQs, claim status checks and detailed instructions on receiving payment. Continuous updates will be posted through the end of the distribution period.