Americans eligible for $16.5 million Avast settlement

Millions of Americans can now claim a share of a $16.5 million settlement related to privacy violations by Avast Software. The company was accused by the Federal Trade Commission of sharing customer browsing data without consent. This data was collected despite Avast's promise to protect users' information. The settlement affects customers who purchased Avast's antivirus software between August 2014 and January 2020. Although Avast will pay the settlement, the company has not admitted any wrongdoing. The FTC sent claim forms to nearly 3.7 million eligible customers between February 24 and March 7, 2025. People who think they qualify should check their junk mail or contact the settlement administrator. To claim their portion of the settlement, eligible customers need to fill out a valid claim form by June 5, 2025. The specific amount each person will receive depends on how many claims are filed. Payments are expected to be issued in 2026. In addition to the Avast settlement, Wells Fargo customers may receive up to $5,000 from a separate $19.5 million privacy settlement. Wells Fargo and other companies were accused of recording customer calls without consent. Another settlement involves Stanley Steemer, where customers can claim up to $10,000 due to a data breach in 2023. The cleaning company agreed to a $700,000 settlement without admitting fault. Claims for this settlement must be submitted by April 28, 2025.