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ZDNET's key takeaways
- A suit alleges Google transmitted user data without permission.
- If you have used an Android device since 2017, you may be eligible.
- You will need a notice ID and confirmation code to file.
Have you used an Android phone to access the internet in the past eight years? You might be in line for payment from a class action lawsuit against Google, but there are some important things you need to know.
Taylor et al. v. Google LLC alleges that Android phones sent information to Google without users' permission, even when the phones weren't in use, and all apps were closed, using users' cell data they paid for. Google could have made these data transfers happen when the device was connected to Wi-Fi, the suit says, but it chose to make them happen at any time.
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Google hasn't acknowledged any wrongdoing, but agreed to a settlement to avoid the prospect of court proceedings. This is unrelated to the recent $700 million Google Play class action lawsuit.
How to file a claim
Anyone who used a cellular connection on an Android phone from Nov. 12, 2017, to the date the settlement receives final approval is eligible to participate in this suit. If you're in this group, you should receive a notice with a code either in the mail or via email — if you haven't already.
To file a claim, start by going to www.federalcellularclassaction.com. You will need your notice ID and confirmation code. If you believe you are eligible but don't receive communication, you can email info@federalcellularclassaction.com. I've reached out to the settlement administrator to see if there's a deadline by which you should receive your communication.
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It's not finalized how much each person will get in this suit. There is a $135 million settlement fund for approximately 100 million settlement class members, but since this sort of suit often sees only single-digit percentage participation, your payout can be up to $100. Each class member will receive the same amount after administration costs, taxes, and attorney fees. Eligible settlement class members will receive payment after the court grants final approval. The final approval hearing is June 23, 2026, so you won't get anything before then.
One important thing to note is that if you're eligible for this suit but don't select a payment method, the administrator will still attempt to pay you. But if the administrator does not have your correct information, you may not receive your money.
