Compensation for Avast Users: What You Need to Know About the FTC Settlement
In a significant development affecting millions of users, software company Avast has reached a $16.5 million settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding privacy violations. The deal impacts approximately 3.7 million consumers who purchased antivirus software between August 2014 and January 2020, and they may soon receive information on their eligibility for compensation.
Details of the FTC Settlement
According to the FTC, Avast engaged in the unauthorized collection of sensitive consumer data through its antivirus software and browser extensions. This data included:
- Religious beliefs
- Health concerns
- Political affiliations
- Geographic locations
- Financial status
Despite assurances that its products were designed to enhance user privacy by blocking third-party tracking, Avast allegedly sold this information without user consent to over 100 third parties through a subsidiary named Jumpshot. The settlement aims to hold the company accountable for these practices and to provide restitution to affected consumers.
Claiming Your Compensation
Email notifications will be sent to eligible consumers within the next week, informing them of their potential compensation. Recipients are encouraged to check their inboxes for communication regarding claims.
To file a claim, affected individuals can visit the official claim site at www.ftc.gov/Avast. Those who receive an email with a claim number can apply for a payment at www.avastsettlement.com/file-a-claim.
If assistance is needed during the claim process, consumers can reach out to the refund administrator at 1-866-290-0165. It is vital to submit claims by June 5, 2026, as the payout amounts will vary based on the total number of claims received.
Tentative Timeline for Payments
The FTC has indicated that compensation payments are projected to be mailed out in 2026.
Avast has not provided any comments regarding the settlement or its implications.
About the Author
Kate Gibson is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch based in New York, where she focuses on business and consumer finance topics.
