AT&T has recently settled two significant data breaches from 2019 and 2022 for a total of $177 million. Customers affected by these breaches may receive payments of up to $5,000; however, it is more likely that smaller amounts will be awarded unless individuals can prove significant losses. Notifications regarding eligibility will be sent out between August and October, with claims needing to be submitted by mid-November.
Despite the timeline for claims, it is anticipated that actual payments may not be disbursed until early 2026. In 2021, AT&T confirmed it had suffered a major data breach that compromised customer data, call records, texts, and other sensitive information impacting roughly 109 million accounts. This breach led to a class-action lawsuit against the company.
The recent settlement approved by US District Judge Ada Brown allocates $28 million for the earlier breach of 2019, while the more recent breach accounts for a substantial $149 million. Customers affected by the breaches may receive up to $5,000, although those with clearly traceable losses will have a better chance at higher payouts. The 2019 breach has a lower maximum payout of around $2,500.
Generally, smaller payouts are expected for customers with minimal impact from these breaches, which may not adequately cover even a single monthly cellphone bill. If you believe you were affected, expect to receive a notification between August 4 and October 17, after which claims need to be filed by November 18. The actual payout will depend largely on documented losses.
Furthermore, with the anticipated long approval process, payments are projected to be made in early 2026, with further information expected following the final settlement approval on December 3.
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