Back in 2017, Equifax revealed that there was a massive data breach impacting 147 million people. Now, according to CBS News, the credit monitoring company is paying out $700 million in damages, $425 million of which will be paid directly to consumers. AKA, normal folk like you and me.
Now, if you had to spend money due to the breach on things like an accountant, lawyer or credit freezing then you’re entitled to up to $20,000. If you did nothing because you’re kind of poor (i.e. me), then you could get a one time $125 payment.
All you have to do is go to Equifax’s website to see if your data was part of the breach. If so, go here and fill out a claim.
Now just a heads up, here’s what you give up by taking the money per Equifax’s FAQs:
If you make a claim under the settlement, or if you do nothing, you will be releasing all of your legal claims relating to the Data Breach against Equifax when the settlement becomes final. By releasing your legal claims, you are giving up the right to file, or to continue to pursue, separate legal claims against or seek further compensation from Equifax for any harm related to the Data Breach—whether or not you are currently aware of those claims.
Unless you exclude yourself from the settlement (see FAQ 23), all of the decisions by the Court will bind you. That means you will be bound to the terms of the settlement and accompanying court orders, and cannot bring a lawsuit or be part of another lawsuit against Equifax regarding the Data Breach.
