If you were among the millions of AT&T customers impacted by last year’s major data breaches, you could be eligible for a payout of up to $7,500 as part of a $177 million proposed settlement.
While not everyone will receive that maximum amount, this settlement marks an important opportunity for affected users to seek compensation for the exposure of their personal data. Here’s what’s going on, who qualifies, and how to file your claim before the deadline.
What Happened: Two Major Breaches, One Massive Settlement
In March 2024, AT&T confirmed the first breach — now referred to as “AT&T 1” — involving data from as early as 2019 that surfaced on the dark web. The exposed information reportedly included names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and billing details for approximately 7.6 million current and 65 million former customers.
A few months later, in July 2024, another incident (“AT&T 2”) came to light, this time affecting call and text metadata stored on a third-party cloud platform.
Following a wave of lawsuits, the cases were consolidated, leading to a joint $177 million settlement, which a U.S. District Court preliminarily approved in June 2025. The final hearing for approval is scheduled for December 3, 2025, and the deadline to file a claim is November 18, 2025.
Who’s Eligible for a Payout?
Eligibility depends on which of the two breaches affected your data. AT&T defines two main settlement classes:
- AT&T 1 Settlement Class: Individuals whose personal information (names, SSNs, addresses, billing info) appeared in the first breach.
- AT&T 2 Settlement Class: Individuals whose call or text metadata was exposed in the second breach.
If your data was compromised in both incidents, you may fall into the overlap settlement class — and that’s where the maximum potential $7,500 payout comes in.
How Much Could You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on the type of claim you file and your ability to document losses:
- For the March breach (AT&T 1):
- Documented Loss Payment: Up to $5,000 for proven, traceable losses related to the breach.
- Tiered Payment Option: A smaller, fixed amount based on exposure type (e.g., SSN compromised or not).
- For the July breach (AT&T 2):
- Documented Loss Payment: Up to $2,500 for verifiable financial harm after April 14, 2024.
- Tier 3 Payment: A share of leftover funds distributed among claimants.
If you qualify for both breaches and provide valid documentation, your combined compensation could reach $7,500.
How to File a Claim
Here’s how to get started before the November 18, 2025 deadline:
- Check for a Notification:
Eligible users should have received an email or letter from the settlement administrator, Kroll, with a Class Member ID. If you didn’t receive one but think you qualify, contact the administrator directly. - Visit the Official Settlement Website:
Go to telecomdatasettlement.com to access the claim form and details. - Log In and Verify Your Information:
Enter your Class Member ID or provide identifying information (such as your name, email, or AT&T account number). - Choose Your Claim Type:
Decide whether to file for the March breach, July breach, or both — and whether you’ll submit documentation or opt for a tiered payment. - Attach Supporting Evidence:
Include bills, invoices, or financial statements that prove your losses are tied to the breach. Claims without valid proof may receive smaller payments. - Submit Your Claim:
Complete your submission online or by mail before November 18, 2025.
Payments will be processed once the court gives final approval in December — though actual disbursements may not arrive until early 2026.
Key Settlement Details
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement Value | $177 million |
| Maximum Payout | Up to $7,500 (if affected by both breaches) |
| Claim Deadline | November 18, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | December 3, 2025 |
| Administrator | Kroll Settlement Administration |
| Official Website | telecomdatasettlement.com |
Important Notes and Warnings
- Documentation matters. Claims without supporting evidence may result in smaller payouts.
- Scam alerts: Only trust official emails from Kroll or the website listed above.
- Miss the deadline, lose the claim. Late submissions are not accepted.
- By claiming, you waive future lawsuits. Filing means you can’t later sue AT&T for the same breaches.
- Delays possible: Court appeals or administrative processes could postpone payments.
Why It Matters
This case serves as another reminder of the growing importance of data security. Massive corporations — even telecom giants — are not immune to cyberattacks. For consumers, it’s a wake-up call to stay vigilant, check accounts regularly, and act promptly when breach notifications arrive.
If you think you might be affected, don’t wait. Visit the official site, gather your documents, and file your claim before November 18, 2025.
A few minutes now could mean hundreds — or even thousands — of dollars later.
FAQs
Q1: Do I automatically get $7,500?
No. $7,500 is the maximum potential payout, requiring valid claims for both breaches with supporting documentation.
Q2: What documentation is needed?
Receipts, bills, invoices, or statements that show losses caused by the breach. Self-prepared documents are usually insufficient.
Q3: Can I file late?
No. Claims postmarked after November 18, 2025 will likely be disqualified.
Q4: Can I claim only one breach?
Yes. Claiming both breaches (if eligible) gives the highest payout potential.
Q5: When will payments arrive?
Payments are distributed after final court approval and any appeals. Timing may extend into early 2026.
