Oracle’s $115 million settlement could be a turning point in addressing privacy concerns amidst allegations of data sales without user consent.
At a Glance
- A class-action case against Oracle America, Inc. claims data collection and sale without consent.
- Oracle denies the allegations but settles for $115 million to avoid prolonged litigation.
- The deadline for affected individuals to file claims is October 17, 2024.
- A final approval hearing is set for November 14, 2024, in San Francisco.
Settlement Details and Deadlines
Oracle America, Inc. faces allegations of capturing and selling personal data without user consent. The case, titled Katz-Lacabe et al v. Oracle America, Inc., underscores potential misconduct in data handling practices. Oracle denies these allegations, maintaining that their practices comply with legal standards. Despite this, the company has agreed to a $115 million settlement fund, reflecting its strategy to avert lengthy court proceedings. Affected individuals, whose data may have been sold since August 2018, can seek compensation by submitting claims before the October 17, 2024 deadline.
Anyone who wants a cut of Oracle's $115 million proposed settlement agreement must submit a claim by or before a looming deadline. https://t.co/5mG2JtOexY
— TCPalm (@TCPalm) September 21, 2024
Eligibility and Claim Process
Eligible claimants include U.S. residents whose personal data was allegedly collected by Oracle during the specified time frame. Notifications might have been sent via email, though not mandatory for filing claims. Completed claim forms, detailing personal information, can be submitted either online or by mail, potentially awarding a payment through direct deposit or prepaid debit card among other methods. The final approval hearing is set for November 14, 2024, in San Francisco. During this session, the court will evaluate and address the legalities surrounding the settlement payout, though appeals might cause delays.
Oracle’s Response and Future Compliance
Oracle’s settlement plan includes initiatives to bolster user data protection, alongside commitments to perform regular audits ensuring customer compliance with enhanced privacy measures. Beyond financial compensation, the case underscores the importance of transparent data management and serves as a precautionary tale, prompting corporations to reconsider how personal data is managed. Class Counsel, Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP, aims to request up to 25% of the Settlement Fund for legal fees, totaling $225,000 in expenses, with $10,000 suggested for the Class Representatives’ service awards.
