Used this service? A receipt could be worth up to $10,000!
- Replies 0
Have you ever used a popular home service provider?
If so, it might be time to check your old receipts—some could be worth up to $10,000. In today’s digital world, personal data is practically currency, and when it falls into the wrong hands, the consequences can be serious.
That’s exactly what happened in a major cyberattack last year that left both customers and employees exposed.
On or around February 10, 2023, Stanley Steemer, a well-known cleaning service, experienced a severe data breach.
Cybercriminals, exploiting vulnerabilities in the company's cybersecurity defenses, gained unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The compromised data wasn't just email addresses or phone numbers. It included names, Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and even the security codes and PINs for those accounts.
In response to the breach, a class action lawsuit was filed against Stanley Steemer, claiming that the company "lost control over sensitive data when cyber criminals infiltrated its insufficiently protected computer systems in a data breach."
While the company has agreed to a $700,000 settlement, it has not admitted any wrongdoing.
However, the settlement does acknowledge that the breach occurred and that affected individuals may have suffered harm as a result.
The settlement offers two types of compensation for class members, which include both customers and employees whose data may have been compromised.
Also read: Could a $10,000 check be in your future? Understanding the $1.45 million settlement and your potential claim
Option 1: Documented Losses
For those who can prove they've suffered financial losses directly due to the breach, there's a chance to claim reimbursement. This includes any expenses, losses, or charges resulting from identity theft or fraud, as well as costs associated with credit report monitoring and other related fees.
To claim under this option, class members must provide evidence such as receipts, bank statements, or other documentation. The maximum amount claimable under this method is $10,000.
Option 2: Pro Rata Cash Payment
The second option is a pro rata cash payment, which is a flat rate divided among all eligible claimants. This doesn't require any proof of loss.
Affected employees can claim a rate of $100, while customers can claim $50. This amount will be distributed from what remains of the net settlement fund after the documented losses have been paid out.
If you're eligible for a claim, you should have received a breach notification from Stanley Steemer.
But don't dawdle—the deadline to submit your claim is April 28. If you wish to object to or exclude yourself from the settlement, this is also your deadline.
2007 Stanley Steemer commercial. Source: Analog Memories / Youtube.
A final approval hearing is set for May 27, after which the payments will be processed and distributed to those who've filed claims.
Read next: You could get up to $48,000—no proof required! See if you qualify for a $92 million settlement
Have you been affected by the Stanley Steemer data breach, or have you experienced a similar situation with another company? How do you protect your personal information in an increasingly digital world? Share your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below!
If so, it might be time to check your old receipts—some could be worth up to $10,000. In today’s digital world, personal data is practically currency, and when it falls into the wrong hands, the consequences can be serious.
That’s exactly what happened in a major cyberattack last year that left both customers and employees exposed.
On or around February 10, 2023, Stanley Steemer, a well-known cleaning service, experienced a severe data breach.
Cybercriminals, exploiting vulnerabilities in the company's cybersecurity defenses, gained unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The compromised data wasn't just email addresses or phone numbers. It included names, Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and even the security codes and PINs for those accounts.
Over a hundred Americans are eligible for up to $10,000 in compensation from a data breach settlement involving Stanley Steemer. Image source: Michael Walter / Unsplash.
In response to the breach, a class action lawsuit was filed against Stanley Steemer, claiming that the company "lost control over sensitive data when cyber criminals infiltrated its insufficiently protected computer systems in a data breach."
While the company has agreed to a $700,000 settlement, it has not admitted any wrongdoing.
However, the settlement does acknowledge that the breach occurred and that affected individuals may have suffered harm as a result.
The settlement offers two types of compensation for class members, which include both customers and employees whose data may have been compromised.
Also read: Could a $10,000 check be in your future? Understanding the $1.45 million settlement and your potential claim
Option 1: Documented Losses
For those who can prove they've suffered financial losses directly due to the breach, there's a chance to claim reimbursement. This includes any expenses, losses, or charges resulting from identity theft or fraud, as well as costs associated with credit report monitoring and other related fees.
To claim under this option, class members must provide evidence such as receipts, bank statements, or other documentation. The maximum amount claimable under this method is $10,000.
Option 2: Pro Rata Cash Payment
The second option is a pro rata cash payment, which is a flat rate divided among all eligible claimants. This doesn't require any proof of loss.
Affected employees can claim a rate of $100, while customers can claim $50. This amount will be distributed from what remains of the net settlement fund after the documented losses have been paid out.
If you're eligible for a claim, you should have received a breach notification from Stanley Steemer.
But don't dawdle—the deadline to submit your claim is April 28. If you wish to object to or exclude yourself from the settlement, this is also your deadline.
2007 Stanley Steemer commercial. Source: Analog Memories / Youtube.
A final approval hearing is set for May 27, after which the payments will be processed and distributed to those who've filed claims.
Read next: You could get up to $48,000—no proof required! See if you qualify for a $92 million settlement
Have you been affected by the Stanley Steemer data breach, or have you experienced a similar situation with another company? How do you protect your personal information in an increasingly digital world? Share your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below!
