As the clock ticks down, millions of Cash App users have just days left to file claims in a $15 million settlement stemming from a major data security breach. The deadline, set for Nov. 18, marks the last chance affected users may seek reimbursement for any potential losses they incurred.
The settlement resolves a class-action lawsuit, Salinas, et al. v. Block, Inc. and Cash App Investing, LLC, which alleged negligence and misrepresentation by the popular mobile payment service and its parent company, according to a settlement notice.
The case, which is currently pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, addresses multiple security concerns, including a significant data breach disclosed in April 2022.
According to court documents, the December 2021 breach compromised the personal information of about 8.2 million current and former Cash App Investing customers, after a former employee allegedly accessed and downloaded user data without approval.
Those eligible can receive their payment in several ways, including reimbursement for out-of-pocket losses up to $2,500, lost time at a rate of $25 per hour for up to three hours, and any transaction-related losses.
To qualify for the settlement, claimants must have held a Cash App account between August 23, 2018, and August 20, 2024. However, those who have already received reimbursement from Block Inc., Cash App Investing, or a third party are no longer eligible.
Cash App users are encouraged to check their accounts for any suspicious transactions during the specified timeline. A dedicated website and hotline have also been established for those affected to submit claims and seek additional information.
For anyone considering legal action outside the settlement, the settlement notice outlines an option to exclude oneself from the agreement.
“You can choose to exclude yourself from (also known as opting out of) the Settlement and receive no payment. This option allows you to sue, continue to sue, or be part of another lawsuit against the Defendants related to the legal claims resolved by this Settlement,” the notice explains.
Additionally, anyone who would like to remain on the settlement but disagrees with its terms can file an objection in court. Doing so allows individuals to voice their concerns related to it while still remaining eligible for compensation, according to the notice.
With the deadline fast approaching, eligible Cash App users are advised to carefully consider their options and take appropriate action to protect their interests. Whether filing a claim, opting out, or objecting to the settlement terms, a prompt decision is now needed as the window closes in less than a week.