Our Mission
What is a class action?
A class action lawsuit is a legal proceeding initiated by one or more individuals, known as class representatives, on behalf of a larger group, or class, of individuals who have suffered similar harm or damages. These lawsuits consolidate numerous claims into a single case, streamlining the legal process and ensuring that individuals with relatively small claims have a voice in seeking redress.
What are the benefits of a class action?
Class actions provide a mechanism for individuals with relatively small claims to pursue legal action against powerful corporations or entities, leveling the playing field and ensuring that all affected individuals have access to justice. Class action lawsuits also have an important deterrent effect on corporate misconduct by imposing significant financial consequences on wrongdoers and holding them accountable for their actions.
Do I waive my rights to participate in a class action by enrolling in the complimentary identity protection services?
You do not waive your legal rights if you enroll in complimentary identity protection services offered by the company that failed to protect your information from a data breach. You can both participate in a class action and take advantage of the offered credit monitoring or identity protection services?
Is there any cost to me to participate in a class action?
There is absolutely no cost to you for participating in a class action lawsuit. All litigation costs are covered by the attorneys representing you. Any attorneys’ fees for class counsel will be paid by the defendant in the amount awarded by the court.
What steps can I take to respond to a data breach?
- Confirm the Breach: Ensure that the data breach is legitimate by verifying the information through credible sources such as the affected company’s official website, news reports, or notifications from relevant authorities.
- Change Your Passwords: If your login credentials were compromised, change your passwords for the affected accounts immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and consider using a reputable password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank accounts, credit card statements, and other financial accounts for any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity. Report any suspicious activity to your financial institution promptly.
- Consider Freezing Your Credit: To prevent identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name, consider placing a freeze on your credit reports with the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This will restrict access to your credit reports and make it harder for unauthorized individuals to open new lines of credit in your name.
- Monitor Your Credit Reports: Regularly monitor your credit reports for any unfamiliar accounts, inquiries, or other suspicious activity. You’re entitled to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once a year through AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Be Vigilant for Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of unsolicited emails, text messages, or phone calls claiming to be from the affected company or other entities related to the breach. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious sources, as they may be phishing attempts aimed at stealing your personal information.
- Consider Identity Theft Protection Services: Depending on the severity of the breach and the information exposed, you may consider enrolling in identity theft protection services offered by reputable companies. These services can provide additional monitoring, alerts, and assistance in resolving identity theft-related issues.
- Seek Legal Advice: If you believe you have suffered financial losses or other damages as a result of the data breach, consider consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in data privacy and consumer protection law. An attorney can advise you on your legal rights and options for seeking compensation or redress.
- Report the Breach: If the breach involves sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers or financial data, consider reporting it to relevant authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state’s attorney general’s office. Reporting the breach can help authorities investigate the incident and take appropriate action.