The deadline for New Yorkers to file a claim in the AT&T data breaches settlement will expire in December.
The AT&T data breaches settlement has become a central topic for millions of customers whose personal information was exposed in two major security incidents.
The telecommunications giant agreed to a $177 million settlement fund to resolve litigation stemming from these breaches, offering affected customers the opportunity to receive compensation.
New York-based customers, along with those across the country, now have the chance to file claims, though deadlines for submission are approaching.
Background of the AT&T Data Breaches
AT&T experienced two significant data breaches that exposed sensitive customer information, including names, contact details, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth.
The first breach occurred in 2019 but was not fully understood until investigations in the following years, while the second breach took place in 2024 due to vulnerabilities in third-party systems.
Affected customers filed lawsuits citing negligence in protecting their personal data.
To resolve the disputes, AT&T agreed to a settlement totaling $177 million, split into two parts:
- $149 million to address claims from the earlier 2019 breach
- $28 million to cover claims from the 2024 incident
The settlement does not represent an admission of wrongdoing but provides a structured method for customers to receive compensation.
- Compensation covers documented losses, time spent addressing the breaches, and potential identity theft risks
- Funds also account for administrative costs and legal fees
- Payments are contingent on claims being submitted before the court-mandated deadline
Eligibility to File a Settlment Claim
Customers eligible for the settlement are those who were AT&T account holders during the breaches and whose personal data was exposed.
Eligibility includes:
- Current or former AT&T subscribers during the affected periods
- Individuals whose names, addresses, phone numbers, or Social Security numbers were part of the exposed records
- Customers who received notifications from the settlement administrator regarding their inclusion in the class
New York residents are explicitly covered under the settlement, and anyone unsure of their eligibility can verify their status by contacting the administrator directly.
- Proof of account ownership may be required for verification
- Documentation such as bills or account statements can strengthen a claim
- Individuals without direct notifications can still check their eligibility online or via the administrator
Filing a Claim for New York Customers
New York-based AT&T customers can file claims through a structured online process or by mailing a paper form.
The steps for filing typically include:
- Obtain a Claim Form: Available from the official settlement administrator
- Provide Personal Information: Include full name, address, AT&T account numbers, and dates of service
- Document Your Losses: Upload receipts, billing statements, or other proof if seeking compensation for specific financial losses
- Submit Before the Deadline: Claims must be received by the court-specified date to be valid
New York claimants should pay special attention to verification requirements, as state regulations may require additional documentation for identity confirmation.
- Online submissions are usually faster and allow tracking of claim status
- Paper submissions must be postmarked before the deadline
- Failure to submit properly can result in forfeiting the right to compensation
Compensation Details
The amount an individual may receive depends on the type of claim and available documentation.
- Documented Loss Claims: Up to $5,000 per individual for verifiable financial damages such as identity theft-related costs or credit monitoring services
- Inconvenience or Time Spent Claims: Smaller, standardized amounts may be provided for time spent addressing the breach or notifying financial institutions
- Additional Considerations: Vulnerable populations or senior citizens may be eligible for enhanced compensation under special settlement provisions
Payments are calculated proportionally based on the number of claims submitted and the total available fund.
- Early filing can improve chances of receiving maximum compensation
- Claimants may choose direct deposit or check for payment
- Tracking information is generally provided once a claim is processed
Monitoring and Identity Protection
Even after filing, affected customers are advised to remain vigilant about personal data security.
AT&T has offered complimentary identity protection and credit monitoring for a limited period to those impacted by the breaches.
New York claimants should also:
- Regularly review credit reports and bank statements
- Set alerts for suspicious activity
- Consider placing a fraud alert or security freeze if personal information has been misused
- Identity protection measures are part of the settlement benefits in some cases
- Customers can continue monitoring beyond the coverage period for ongoing security
- Being proactive can mitigate the risk of long-term consequences from the breaches
Key Deadlines and Next Steps
The settlement administrator has set firm deadlines for claims submission. Missing the deadline may disqualify eligible customers from receiving compensation.
New York residents should:
- Check claim forms carefully for accuracy
- Submit documentation promptly
- Track submission confirmation to ensure the claim is valid
- Deadline compliance is mandatory for participation
- Keep copies of all submissions for personal records
- Contact the administrator with questions or to verify claim receipt
With millions of AT&T customers potentially impacted, the settlement provides a structured pathway for restitution and underscores the importance of data security in the digital age.
