AMC Networks has recently settled a lawsuit related to privacy issues concerning its streaming services, including AMC Plus. This legal dispute revolved around allegations that AMC breached privacy laws by using a tracking tool from Meta, Facebook’s parent company, which allegedly collected personal information from users without their consent.
Lawsuit Origins
The controversy began when a resident from New York sued AMC last year. The lawsuit accused AMC of using a Meta tracking pixel in its streaming platforms. This pixel was said to collect personal details from viewers without getting their explicit permission, which supposedly violated the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA).
Settlement Details
Recently, AMC reached an $8.3 million settlement with the plaintiff. Although AMC did not admit to any wrongdoing, they chose to settle to avoid the risk and expense of a lengthy legal battle.
Compensation
If you used AMC’s streaming services between January 18, 2021, and January 10, 2024, you might be eligible for cash compensation. To get this, you need to file a claim by early April. The exact amount you get will depend on how many claims are made and will be reduced by court and attorney fees. Additionally, those who qualify will receive a one-week free subscription to AMC Plus.
Eligibility
You can claim compensation if you used any of the following services:
- AMC Plus
- Acorn TV
- ALLBLK
- HiDive
- Shudder
- Sundance Now
How to File a Claim
To receive your compensation, you need to submit a valid claim by April 9, 2024. Previous customers will get notifications with unique codes to use when filing claims, but claims can also be made without these codes. You can find detailed instructions and the claim submission form online.
Changes by AMC
As part of the settlement, AMC will remove the Meta tracking pixel from its services and stop using similar third-party tracking tools. This step is aimed at improving user privacy.
Court Approval
A court is expected to approve the settlement on May 16. This approval will officially end the privacy dispute.
The settlement highlights the importance of obtaining user consent for data collection. For affected AMC subscribers, this settlement offers both compensation and a commitment to better privacy practices.
1. What is the lawsuit against AMC Networks about?
The lawsuit claims AMC used a Meta tracking pixel to collect personal information from users without their consent, violating privacy laws.
How much is AMC paying in the settlement?
AMC has agreed to pay $8.3 million to settle the lawsuit.
How can I get compensation if I was an AMC subscriber?
If you subscribed to AMC’s services between January 18, 2021, and January 10, 2024, you can file a claim by April 9, 2024, to receive compensation.
What services are included in the compensation?
The compensation applies to AMC Plus, Acorn TV, ALLBLK, HiDive, Shudder, and Sundance Now.
What changes is AMC making as part of the settlement?
AMC will remove the Meta tracking pixel and stop using similar third-party tracking tools to enhance user privacy.