rpmdatasettlement com
October 19, 2024
### RPM Data Settlement: An Overview of the Data Breach Lawsuit and Compensation Process
**Introduction**
The RPM Data Settlement refers to the resolution of a class-action lawsuit filed against Receivables Performance Management, LLC (RPM) following a data breach in 2021. This incident allegedly exposed sensitive personal information, leading to legal actions that have culminated in a $5.6 million settlement. Affected individuals are now entitled to compensation through a claims process. This article will delve into the details of the data breach, the lawsuit, and the steps eligible class members need to take to claim their share of the settlement.
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### The RPM Data Breach Incident
In April 2021, Receivables Performance Management, a company specializing in debt collection, suffered a data breach that compromised the personal information of individuals in its database. According to the complaint, unauthorized access to RPM's systems allowed hackers to collect sensitive data, potentially including Social Security numbers, financial information, and other personal identifiers. The breach raised concerns about RPM’s data security practices and prompted legal actions from affected individuals.
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### Legal Proceedings and Settlement Agreement
The class-action lawsuit was initiated by individuals whose personal data was compromised in the breach. Plaintiffs alleged that RPM failed to implement adequate security measures to protect customer data, violating consumer protection laws. Although RPM denied any wrongdoing or liability, both parties reached a settlement to avoid further litigation.
The court approved a $5.6 million settlement, which will be used to provide compensation for affected individuals and cover administrative and legal fees.
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### Who Is Eligible for Compensation?
Individuals affected by the breach are automatically part of the settlement class, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. Affected class members must have been notified of the breach or prove that their information was part of RPM’s compromised records.
Eligible individuals can receive benefits in various forms, including:
1. **Cash Payments**: Compensation based on the number of valid claims filed.
2. **Identity Theft Protection**: Coverage for future incidents related to compromised data.
3. **Reimbursement for Expenses**: Individuals who suffered out-of-pocket losses due to the breach (such as identity theft-related costs) may be reimbursed upon submitting valid documentation.
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### How to File a Claim
The settlement requires affected individuals to submit a claim form by **November 12, 2024**, to qualify for benefits. Claim forms can be submitted online via the official website [rpmdatasettlement.com](https://www.rpmdatasettlement.com) or mailed to the claims administrator.
The process involves the following steps:
1. **Filing the Claim**: Provide class member information, including your name, contact details, and any unique identifier (such as a reference number from the data breach notification).
2. **Supporting Documentation**: Attach any evidence required to prove eligibility for specific benefits (e.g., receipts for reimbursement claims).
3. **Payment Selection**: Choose how you wish to receive compensation (e.g., check or direct deposit).
4. **Signature and Submission**: Ensure the form is signed before submitting it by mail or through the online portal.
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### Important Deadlines
- **Claim Submission Deadline**: November 12, 2024
- **Final Approval Hearing**: November 22, 2024
The final approval hearing will determine whether the settlement is fully authorized by the court. If no objections are raised, compensation disbursements will begin shortly after the hearing.
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### Denial of Liability by RPM
Despite agreeing to the settlement, RPM continues to deny any wrongdoing or negligence. The company claims it took appropriate steps to respond to the breach and enhance its security protocols afterward. However, the settlement allows affected individuals to receive compensation without RPM admitting liability, which is common in class-action resolutions.
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### Settlement Administration
The claims process is being managed by a third-party administrator, **Kroll Settlement Administration**, a well-known entity for handling class action settlements. The administrator is responsible for verifying claims, processing payments, and ensuring that eligible class members receive their benefits.
The settlement website provides all relevant documents, including:
- **Settlement Agreement**: Details the terms of the agreement between RPM and plaintiffs.
- **Claim Form**: Available for online or mail submission.
- **FAQs and Important Notices**: Clarifies common questions about the claims process.
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### What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
If an individual misses the **November 12, 2024** deadline to file a claim, they will forfeit their right to receive compensation from the settlement. Additionally, class members who do not opt out of the settlement by the given deadline waive their right to pursue independent legal action against RPM over the data breach.
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### Impact on Affected Individuals
The data breach has highlighted the risks associated with storing large amounts of personal data, particularly for companies in the financial sector. For the affected individuals, the breach exposed them to potential identity theft and fraud, creating stress and financial burdens. The settlement aims to provide relief for those impacted, although it cannot fully compensate for the breach’s long-term effects.
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### Lessons for Businesses
The RPM incident underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. Companies handling sensitive personal information must ensure that their systems are secure to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, businesses must act quickly and transparently in the event of a breach to maintain customer trust and mitigate legal risks.
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### Conclusion
The RPM data breach and subsequent class-action lawsuit demonstrate the serious consequences of data security lapses. With a $5.6 million settlement fund, affected individuals now have an opportunity to claim compensation for their losses. However, timely action is necessary, as all claims must be submitted by **November 12, 2024**. For those impacted by the breach, the settlement offers some relief and highlights the need for stronger data protection practices across industries.
If you believe you are eligible, visit the official settlement website [rpmdatasettlement.com] to submit your claim and review important documents.