Data breach fallout continues for AT&T, as a significant settlement has been reached. Current and former AT&T customers affected by data breaches disclosed in 2024 can now file claims for compensation, potentially receiving up to $7,500. This settlement aims to address the harm caused by the exposure of sensitive personal information in two separate incidents.
AT&T’s Data Breach Settlement: What You Need to Know
AT&T has agreed to a $177 million settlement to resolve class-action lawsuits resulting from two data breaches that occurred and were disclosed in 2024. According to reports from FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth, CNET, ZDNET, Kiplinger, ConsumerAffairs, and WCNC, these breaches compromised the personal data of millions of individuals. The settlement is divided into two separate funds to compensate victims of each breach.
The 2019 Data Incident
The first breach, announced in March 2024, involved a dataset that surfaced on the dark web. This data, originating from 2019 or earlier, impacted approximately 73 million current and former customers. The exposed information was extensive and highly sensitive, including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, account passcodes, and billing account numbers. This breach alone has a settlement fund of $149 million dedicated to compensating affected individuals.
The 2024 Data Incident
The second data breach, disclosed in July 2024, involved the illegal download of data from a third-party cloud platform, Snowflake. This breach compromised call and text records of nearly all cellular customers. The exposed data included telephone numbers, contacts, call counts, and call durations. The settlement allocates $28 million to compensate those affected by this second breach.
Who is Eligible for Compensation?
Eligibility for compensation extends to any current or former AT&T customer whose data was accessed in either, or both, of the two data breaches. This broad definition ensures that all impacted individuals have the opportunity to seek redress for the potential harm they have suffered as a result of the data exposure.
Claim Amounts and Tiers
The potential compensation varies depending on the breach and the documented losses incurred by the individual. According to the settlement terms, victims of the 2019 data breach can claim up to $5,000 for documented out-of-pocket losses. Alternatively, they can opt for a tiered cash payment. Tier 1 payments, intended for those whose Social Security numbers were compromised, are significantly larger, reportedly five times the amount of Tier 2 payments.
For the 2024 data breach, victims can claim up to $2,500 for documented losses. Alternatively, they can receive a Tier 3 payment, the amount of which will be determined based on the number of valid claims submitted.
Individuals affected by both breaches have the potential to receive a combined maximum of up to $7,500, provided they can furnish documented proof of losses for both incidents. This represents a significant opportunity for those who experienced substantial financial or other harm as a direct result of the data breaches.
Filing a Claim: Key Dates and Procedures
The claims process officially opened on August 4, 2025, providing a window of opportunity for eligible individuals to submit their claims. The deadline to file a claim is November 18, 2025. It is crucial for affected individuals to adhere to this deadline to ensure their eligibility for compensation.
How to Submit Your Claim
Claims can be submitted through two primary channels: online or by mail. The official settlement website, telecomdatasettlement.com, provides a user-friendly interface for submitting claims electronically. This online portal offers a streamlined process for providing the necessary information and documentation. Claim forms can also be downloaded from the website and submitted via mail.
Understanding the Impact of Data Breaches
These data breaches underscore the significant risks associated with the storage and handling of personal information. The exposure of sensitive data such as Social Security numbers, addresses, and financial details can have far-reaching consequences for affected individuals. Identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage are just some of the potential harms that can arise from such breaches.
Protecting Yourself After a Breach
Following a data breach, it is essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself from potential harm. This includes monitoring your credit reports for any signs of fraudulent activity, changing passwords on online accounts, and being vigilant against phishing scams and other attempts to obtain your personal information. Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit file to further mitigate the risk of identity theft.
Moving Forward After Data Exposure
The AT&T data breach settlement represents a significant step towards providing compensation to those affected by these incidents. While no amount of money can fully compensate for the harm caused by the exposure of personal information, this settlement offers a measure of redress and accountability. Affected individuals are encouraged to file their claims before the November 18, 2025 deadline to ensure they receive the compensation to which they may be entitled.
Seeking Legal Advice
Navigating the complexities of a class-action settlement can be challenging. If you have questions or concerns about your eligibility or the claims process, consider seeking legal advice from an attorney experienced in data breach litigation. An attorney can provide personalized guidance and represent your interests throughout the settlement process.
Data Privacy
The AT&T data breach settlement highlights the importance of data privacy and security in today’s digital age. As individuals and organizations increasingly rely on technology to store and process personal information, it is crucial to implement robust security measures to protect against data breaches and cyberattacks. Staying informed about data privacy best practices and advocating for stronger data protection laws are essential steps in safeguarding your personal information.
Final Thoughts
The AT&T settlement offers recourse for affected customers. This settlement underscores the need for robust data security practices and vigilance in protecting personal information in an increasingly interconnected world. By understanding the details of the settlement and taking proactive steps to protect themselves, individuals can navigate the aftermath of these breaches and mitigate potential harm.
