Aussie Facebook users are set for a payout after Meta agreed to a historic $50 million settlement with the country’s information commissioner. This cash boost will be available to users affected by the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which occurred nearly a decade ago.
Background on the Cambridge Analytica Scandal
In the 2010s, British consulting firm Cambridge Analytica harvested personal data from tens of millions of Facebook users. This data was then used for political advertising, including the 2016 presidential campaign of Donald Trump.
Largest Ever Privacy Settlement
Australian Information Commissioner Elizabeth Tydd described the settlement as the “largest ever payment” dedicated to addressing the privacy concerns of Australian individuals.
“It represents a substantive resolution of privacy concerns raised by the Cambridge Analytica matter, gives potentially affected Australians an opportunity to seek redress through Meta’s payment program, and brings to an end a lengthy court process,” she said.
Settlement Details
The multi-million-dollar deal follows a court-ordered mediation that has been ongoing since February 2024. The Commissioner lodged proceedings against Meta in the Federal Court in 2020 after the personal information of Australian Facebook users was shared without their permission.
A Meta spokesperson stated that the company settled on a no admissions basis, emphasizing that it was in the best interest of their community and shareholders to close this chapter on past practices.
Eligibility for the Payout
The $50 million payment program will be open to Australians who:
- Held a Facebook account between November 2, 2013, and December 17, 2015
- Were present in Australia for more than 30 days during that period
- Either installed the “This Is Your Digital Life” app or were Facebook friends with someone who installed the app
Individuals can check their eligibility on a help page on the Facebook website. The information commissioner indicated that applications for the payment would likely start in the second quarter of 2025. The payment scheme will be managed by an independent third-party administration appointed by Meta, to be announced early next year.
Payment Tiers
The payment scheme will include two tiers:
- Base Payment: For individuals who believe they experienced general concern or embarrassment due to the matter.
- Specific Payment: Likely higher, for those who can demonstrate they suffered loss or damage.
The exact amounts and specific details required for these payments are yet to be confirmed.
This settlement marks a significant step in addressing privacy concerns and providing redress to affected Australians. Be sure to check your eligibility and stay updated on the application process to benefit from this historic settlement.
