AMC Networks, the company behind popular streaming services such as AMC+, Acorn TV, AllBlk, and Sundance Now, has recently settled a class action lawsuit filed by subscribers who claimed that their personal data was improperly shared. The settlement comes after several subscribers accused the company of disclosing their personally identifiable information (PII) to third parties without their consent.
The lawsuit was filed in January 2023, and AMC Networks reached a settlement agreement with the subscribers’ attorneys in December of the same year. As part of the settlement, AMC Networks will pay $8.3 million to create a settlement fund. Additionally, the company has agreed to modify or discontinue the use of tracking technologies that may violate the Video Privacy Protection Act, which prohibits video services from disclosing consumers’ PII without their consent.
While AMC Networks denies any wrongdoing, both parties have agreed to settle the case to avoid a trial. The settlement administrator has started emailing potential members of the settlement class, notifying them of the settlement and their eligibility to receive compensation.
If you are a subscriber to any of AMC Networks’ streaming services and have watched content between January 18, 2021, and January 10, 2024, you may be eligible to receive a settlement award. Most subscribers have likely received an email regarding the settlement, but if you haven’t, it’s worth checking your junk mail folder. Alternatively, you can visit the settlement website (www.amcvppasettlement.com) to submit a claim or download a claim form.
The exact amount of the settlement award is yet to be determined. It will depend on factors such as the number of plaintiffs’ settlements awarded, court-approved attorneys’ fees and expenses, and other costs. However, with an estimated settlement class of 11.4 million subscribers (the number of subscribers AMC Networks had at the end of 2023), individual awards may amount to less than $1.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the settlement also offers a one-week subscription to AMC+ for all approved claims. However, some subscribers are considering declining the settlement and pursuing further legal action. One Reddit user suggested starting a larger class action lawsuit to demand more substantial compensation, stating that $8.3 million is insignificant compared to the potential damages caused by the illegal sale of personal information.
While the settlement brings some resolution to the issue of improper data sharing, it also raises concerns about the protection of personal data in the streaming industry. As more and more people rely on streaming services for their entertainment needs, it is crucial for companies like AMC Networks to prioritize user privacy and ensure that their data handling practices comply with relevant regulations.
As the settlement process unfolds, it serves as a reminder for subscribers to be vigilant about their personal information and to stay informed about their rights regarding data privacy. By holding companies accountable for their actions and demanding transparency, consumers can help shape a safer and more secure digital landscape.
