The AMC Networks, Inc. class action settlement addresses privacy concerns related to the alleged improper disclosure of personally identifiable information by AMC to third-party tracking companies.
This settlement, valued at $8.3 million, compensates affected users and enforces changes in AMC’s data privacy practices.
AMC VPPA Lawsuit Settlement Overview
The class action lawsuit accused AMC of violating the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) by sharing user data without consent.
The lawsuit focused on users from six AMC streaming services: AMC+, Shudder, Acorn TV, ALLBLK, SundanceNow, and HIDIVE, covering the period from January 18, 2021, through January 10, 2024.
Eligibility Criteria for the AMC VPPA Settlement
To qualify for the settlement, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must reside in the United States.
- Registration: Must have been a registered user of one or more of the designated AMC services.
- Activity: Must have requested or obtained video content from these services between January 18, 2021, and January 10, 2024.
- Exclusions: Those who have previously engaged counsel to pursue similar claims are excluded.
What Does the AMC VPPA Settlement Provide?
The $8.3 million settlement fund is allocated as follows:
- Monetary Compensation: Each eligible class member will receive a pro-rata share of the settlement fund after legal fees and other expenses are deducted. The exact amount per claimant will depend on the total number of valid claims submitted.
- In-Kind Compensation: Each class member who submits a valid claim will also receive a one-week digital subscription to AMC+.
- Data Privacy Changes: AMC must alter its data privacy practices, including modifying or discontinuing the use of Meta Pixel and other tracking technologies to prevent unauthorized disclosure of video content.
Key Dates for the AMC Settlement
| Key Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Claim Submission Deadline | April 9, 2024 | Last date to submit a claim for monetary compensation and in-kind benefits. |
| Exclusion Deadline | April 9, 2024 | Deadline to opt out of the settlement to retain the right to sue AMC. |
| Objection Deadline | April 9, 2024 | Last date to file an objection to the settlement terms. |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 16, 2024 | Court hearing to determine the fairness of the settlement. |
| Settlement Final Approval | May 16, 2024 | Date when the court grants final approval to the settlement. |
| Payment Distribution Date | August 24, 2024 | Date when monetary payments and AMC+ subscriptions are distributed. |
Claim Process for the AMC Settlement
To receive compensation, affected users had to submit a claim form by April 9, 2024. This was the only method to qualify for a payout from the settlement fund.
Failure to submit the form meant forfeiting the right to compensation but retaining the ability to pursue separate legal action against AMC on similar grounds.
By August 24, 2024, eligible claimants will receive their pro-rata share of the settlement fund and the promised one-week AMC+ subscription.
This settlement marks a significant step in addressing consumer privacy rights in the digital streaming industry, holding companies accountable for their data practices.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the AMC class action settlement?
U.S. residents who used AMC+, Shudder, Acorn TV, ALLBLK, SundanceNow, or HIDIVE between January 18, 2021, and January 10, 2024.
What is the settlement amount for each claimant?
Each claimant will receive a pro-rata share of the $8.3 million settlement, depending on the number of valid claims.
When will the settlement payments be distributed?
Payments and in-kind benefits will be distributed by August 24, 2024.
What in-kind benefit do claimants receive?
Claimants will receive a one-week digital subscription to AMC+.
What is the deadline to submit a claim for the AMC settlement?
The deadline to submit a claim was April 9, 2024.
