by Cash App customers could be able to claim more than $2,500 each as part of a $15 million class-action settlement over data and security breaches at the mobile payment service.
Individuals whose accounts were accessed without their authorization or who made fraudulent withdrawals or transfers can file claims, provided they had or currently have an account between Aug. 23, 2018, and Aug. 20, 2024, according to the settlement website.
The class action lawsuit cited an incident in 2021 that the company disclosed in 2022, in which a former employee downloaded reports from some U.S. users without authorization. It also cited another breach, disclosed in 2023, in which an unauthorized user accessed some Cash App accounts using phone numbers linked to them.
The plaintiffs also alleged that Cash App and Block, the app’s parent company, failed to install controls to block unauthorized users and that the company then mishandled customer complaints about security breaches and fraudulent transactions.
Cash App and Block also agreed to take steps to strengthen data security as part of the deal.
Cash App and Block have denied any wrongdoing. But to settle the lawsuit, they agreed to pay $15 million. Beyond attorney fees and administrative costs, that money will go to affected customers who submit eligible claims.
How to File a Cash App Claim
Customers can file a complaint on this site. You will either need to enter a notification ID and confirmation code from a notification sent by mail or email, or file a complaint if you have not received such a notification.
What is the deadline to file a Cash App claim?
Customers have until November 18 to file a claim under the settlement.
How much money can customers get under the settlement?
It is not yet clear how much money will be awarded, as it will depend on the number of people who apply.
However, those affected by the data and security breaches can submit claims for up to $2,500 for losses they incurred. They must submit third-party documentation to support their claim, according to the settlement website.
Personal expenses may include:
- Credit monitoring or identity theft insurance fees, request for a credit report or credit freeze
- Fees for canceling a payment card or obtaining a replacement card
- Fees for closing a bank account and opening a new bank account
- Unreimbursed overdraft fees
- Late or non-payment fees or fees that have not been refunded
Customers can also claim up to three hours of lost time, at a rate of $25 per hour, the site adds.
Additionally, Cash App users can file a claim to get reimbursement for transaction losses. These claims also require the submission of documentation such as a copy of a police report.
What happens if the settlement fund cannot fully pay all claims?
If there is not enough money in the settlement to pay each approved claim in full, payments will be made on a reduced pro rata basis.
What other options do I have?
If you want to exclude yourself from the settlement, class members have the opportunity to opt out before November 1. This allows you to continue or be part of another related lawsuit against the defendants later. You can also object to the settlement agreement by writing to the court before November 1.
Finally, you can also choose to do nothing. But if you choose this option, you will not receive any payment and you will potentially give up the right to pursue another lawsuit whose claims are covered by the settlement.
— With reporting from the Associated Press.
