In a recent settlement, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) agreed to pay $1.8 million to resolve claims made by inmates in a class action lawsuit. The lawsuit stems from a 2022 data breach that compromised the personal and medical information of thousands of inmates across California’s prison system.
The breach, which occurred in January 2022, saw unauthorized access to sensitive data stored by the CDCR. Affected individuals had their personal details, including health information, exposed by cybercriminals who gained access to the Department’s platform. This class action lawsuit has been a major event, with 1.4 million inmates potentially impacted by this breach.
Who is Eligible for the $1.8 million settlement?
If you were an inmate in California’s prison system, your personal or health information could have been part of the breach. If the CDCR stored your data, and it was accessed by unauthorized parties, you may be eligible to receive a portion of the $1.8 million settlement.
Class members, including those who received a postcard notice, don’t have to do anything to receive their share. For those who didn’t get the notice, there is still a chance to benefit from the settlement. All you need to do is submit a valid claim form by February 14, 2025. It’s that simple!
What Does This Settlement Mean for You?
Under the terms of the settlement, affected individuals will share in the settlement fund, but how much each person receives will depend on the total number of participants. After deducting attorneys’ fees and other associated costs, the exact payout will be determined.
Even though the CDCR hasn’t admitted any wrongdoing, agreeing to this settlement helps resolve the lawsuit quickly, ensuring that affected parties get compensation for the breach. This settlement highlights how important it is to safeguard sensitive personal and health data, especially in government institutions.
Key Deadlines to Keep in Mind
It is important to be aware of key deadlines related to the settlement process. If you want to be part of the settlement, make sure to submit your claim form by February 14, 2025. The final approval hearing for this settlement will take place on March 7, 2025. Keep track of these dates to ensure you do not miss out on your chance to claim your share of the settlement.
How to File Your Claim
Filing a claim is a straightforward process. If you received a postcard notice about the settlement, there is no need to take any additional steps. However, if you did not get the notice, you will need to fill out and submit a valid claim form to be considered for compensation. Simply visit the settlement website, CDCRDataClassActionSettlement.com, to find the necessary information and the claim form. Remember, filing a false claim is considered perjury, so ensure you meet the eligibility requirements before submitting your form.
What Happens Next?
Once all claims have been reviewed and finalized, the settlement funds will be distributed to eligible class members. The amount each person receives will depend on the total number of claimants. Keep in mind that attorney fees and other costs will be deducted from the settlement fund before the payouts are made.
This settlement is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that personal data is kept secure and that people who are affected by such breaches are compensated for any harm caused.
Important Information and Resources
- Claim Deadline: February 14, 2025
- Final Hearing: March 7, 2025
- Settlement Website: CDCRDataClassActionSettlement.com
- Claims Administrator: Thomas vs. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, managed by CPT Group Inc.
For more details on eligibility, the claims process, or to file your claim, visit the official settlement website or reach out to the Claims Administrator. If you have any questions or need help, the claims administrator can be contacted at CDCRDataClassActionSettlement@CPTGroup.com or by phone at 888-735-6130.
Final Thoughts
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has not taken responsibility for the data breach, but this settlement allows those impacted to receive compensation. It is important to submit your claim before the deadline to ensure you don’t miss out on the opportunity if you’re eligible. Make sure your information is correctly submitted to receive your compensation.