$32.8M ParkMobile Data Breach Settlement: In March 2021, ParkMobile, a popular parking app used across the United States, experienced a data breach compromising the personal information of millions of users. To address the situation, ParkMobile has agreed to a $32.8 million settlement. This article provides a detailed overview of the settlement, including eligibility criteria, compensation details, and important deadlines.
$32.8M ParkMobile Data Breach Settlement
The ParkMobile data breach and its subsequent settlement highlight the increasing risks to personal data in today’s digital age. While the breach compromised certain user information, ParkMobile has taken steps to compensate affected individuals. If you believe you were impacted, be sure to file a claim by March 5, 2025, to receive your compensation. Additionally, follow the steps outlined above to protect your personal information from future breaches. Remember, taking proactive measures today can help safeguard your data tomorrow.
| Settlement Amount | Eligible Users | Claim Deadline | Compensation Options | Expected Payment Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $32.8 million | Users notified of the 2021 data breach | March 5, 2025 | Up to $25 cash or $1 app credit | 2026 (pending court approval) |
Background of the Data Breach
ParkMobile is a mobile application that allows users to pay for parking in various cities across the U.S. In March 2021, the company discovered a vulnerability in a third-party system it utilized, which led to unauthorized access to certain user data. The compromised information included:
- License Plate Numbers: Identifiers used for vehicle registration.
- Email Addresses: Users’ primary email contact information.
- Phone Numbers: Contact numbers provided by users.
- Vehicle Nicknames: Custom names assigned to vehicles within the app.
- Mailing Addresses (in some cases): Physical addresses associated with user accounts.
It’s important to note that no credit card information, parking transaction histories, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, or dates of birth were accessed during the breach.
Settlement Details
To resolve the class-action lawsuit resulting from the breach, ParkMobile has agreed to a settlement totaling $32.8 million. This amount is allocated as follows:
- $9 Million: Available for cash payments to eligible users.
- $21 Million: Set aside for in-app credits for users who opt not to receive cash payments.
- $2.5 Million: Allocated for ParkMobile to implement enhanced security measures to protect user data in the future.
Eligible users can choose between two compensation options:
- Cash Payment: Users can receive a cash payment of up to $25. The exact amount may vary depending on the total number of claims filed.
- In-App Credit: Users who do not opt for a cash payment will receive a $1 credit code for use within the ParkMobile app.
No proof of purchase is required to file a claim.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for compensation, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Notification: Users who received a notification from ParkMobile about the March 2021 data breach are considered “Settlement Class Members.”
- Claim Submission: Eligible individuals must submit a valid claim form by March 5, 2025. This can be done online or by mail.
- Exclusions: Individuals who opted out of the settlement by February 3, 2025, as well as judges, their staff, and their families, are not eligible for compensation.
How to File a $32.8M ParkMobile Data Breach Settlement Claim?
Users who are eligible and wish to receive compensation should follow these steps:
- Online Submission:
- Visit the official settlement website: parkmobilesettlement.com.
- Complete the online claim form with the required information.
- Submit the form electronically before the deadline.
- Mail Submission:
- Download and print the claim form from the settlement website.
- Fill out the form with accurate information.
- Mail the completed form to the following address:
ParkMobile Data Security Incident Attn: Claim Forms 1650 Arch Street, Suite 2210 Philadelphia, PA 19103 - Ensure the form is postmarked by March 5, 2025.
Important Deadlines
- February 3, 2025: Deadline to opt out of the settlement.
- March 5, 2025: Final day to submit a claim for compensation.
- March 13, 2025: Scheduled date for final court approval of the settlement.
Payments are expected to be processed in 2026, following final court approval.
How to Protect Yourself from Future Data Breaches?
While the settlement provides compensation for the data breach, it’s essential for users to take steps to protect themselves from future security issues. Here are some tips to ensure your personal data remains secure:
1. Change Your Passwords Regularly
Using unique and strong passwords for every account is crucial. Consider using a password manager to keep track of all your credentials securely.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication
For extra protection, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts that offer it, including ParkMobile. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification.
3. Monitor Your Financial Statements
Even though no financial data was compromised in this breach, it’s a good habit to keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity.
4. Be Cautious of Phishing Scams
Scammers often target individuals affected by data breaches. Be wary of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or texts asking for personal information. Always verify the sender before clicking on links or providing any details.
5. Update Your Software
Keep your devices, apps, and software up to date with the latest security patches. Hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to gain access to personal information.
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FAQs
Q1: I didn’t receive a notification about the data breach. Am I still eligible for compensation?
If you did not receive a notification from ParkMobile regarding the March 2021 data breach, it’s possible your information was not compromised. However, you can contact the Settlement Administrator at 1-866-944-4062 to inquire about your eligibility.
Q2: How can I check if my personal information was affected by the breach?
ParkMobile has reached out to affected users via email. If you believe you were impacted and haven’t received a notification, you can visit the official settlement website or contact the Settlement Administrator for further information.
Q3: What happens if I don’t file a claim?
If you do not file a claim by the deadline (March 5, 2025), you will not be eligible for compensation. However, you will still be part of the class action and bound by the settlement’s terms.
Q4: Will I receive the full $25 compensation?
The exact amount of compensation will depend on the total number of claims filed. If a large number of people file claims, the amount you receive may be less than $25. However, it will not exceed $25.
Q5: Can I claim both the cash payment and in-app credit?
No, users are only allowed to choose one form of compensation: either the cash payment or the in-app credit.
