Settlement Overview
Oracle, a prominent player in database software and cloud computing, has reached a preliminary settlement to resolve allegations that it violated privacy laws. The lawsuit, filed in San Francisco federal court, claims that Oracle created unauthorized “digital dossiers” containing extensive personal data on millions of people. This data allegedly included users’ online browsing habits, banking activities, location information, and shopping details, which Oracle then sold to third parties.
Key Details of the Settlement:
- Settlement Amount: $115 million.
- Allegations: Unauthorized collection and sale of personal information.
- Affected Period: From August 19, 2018, to the present.
Why is Oracle Settling?
Oracle has agreed to this settlement despite denying any wrongdoing. The decision to settle is often driven by the desire to avoid the costs and uncertainties of a prolonged trial. The settlement must be approved by a judge, with the final hearing scheduled for November 14, 2024.
Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
If you were a U.S. resident and your personal information was collected or sold by Oracle since August 19, 2018, you may be eligible for a portion of the settlement. This includes data collected through Oracle’s advertising products, such as ID Graph.
Eligibility Criteria:
- U.S. residency from August 19, 2018, onwards.
- Personal data collected by Oracle’s advertising technologies.
How to File a Claim
To claim your share of the settlement, follow these steps:
- Visit the Settlement Website: Access the claim form through the official Oracle settlement website.
- Submit Your Claim: Provide your name, address, and contact information. Claims can be filed online or by mail.
Claim Deadline: October 17, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
Filing Options:
Payment Details
The exact amount each claimant will receive is not yet determined. Payments will be distributed on a pro-rata basis from the settlement fund, after deducting up to $28.75 million for legal fees and administrative costs. The final amount will depend on the total number of valid claims.
Additional Settlement Terms
As part of the settlement, Oracle has also agreed to:
- No Data Capture: Cease collecting user-generated data from referrer websites and online forms not on Oracle’s sites.
- Privacy Audit Program: Implement an audit program to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
How to Learn More
For detailed information about the settlement and to file a claim, visit the official Oracle settlement website.
Official Settlement Website: Click here for more details and to file a claim.
Conclusion
Oracle’s $115 million settlement marks a significant step in addressing privacy violations in the digital era. If you believe your personal data was affected, take action by filing a claim before the October 17 deadline. Stay updated on the settlement approval process and ensure you don’t miss out on your potential share of the compensation.
