Keller Postman College Board Payout: 10 Things You Didn’t Know Until Now
The College Board lawsuit payout, orchestrated by Keller Postman, has finally reached many students and parents. While you might know you received (or are eligible for) a check, there are several crucial details often overlooked. Here's a breakdown of ten important things you might not have known about the Keller Postman College Board settlement:
1. The Lawsuit's Core Issue: Data Privacy
The lawsuit wasn't just about standardized testing; it centered on the College Board's alleged practice of collecting and sharing students' personal data with third parties for marketing purposes, often without explicit consent. This included information gleaned from PSAT and SAT registrations, raising concerns about privacy violations and potential exploitation. This data was then used to target students with college admissions and financial aid advertising.
2. Keller Postman's Role: Championing Student Rights
Keller Postman, a leading class action law firm, spearheaded the legal battle against the College Board. They argued that the College Board breached its contract with students and violated privacy laws by monetizing their data. Their success in securing this settlement highlights the firm's commitment to protecting consumer rights, particularly for vulnerable student populations.
3. Payout Eligibility: More Than Just Taking the SAT
Eligibility for the settlement extended beyond simply taking the SAT or PSAT. Individuals who provided their personal information to the College Board between specific dates (August 1, 2013, and January 29, 2024) and whose data was allegedly misused are eligible. This includes those who registered for, but didn't necessarily take, the exams.
4. The Payout Amount: It's Not a Lottery Win
While receiving a check is a welcome surprise, it's crucial to understand that the individual payout amount is relatively modest. The exact amount varies depending on factors like the number of claimants and the extent of the College Board's data collection. Expect a sum that, while helpful, won't significantly alter your financial situation.
5. Deduction for Legal Fees: Keller Postman's Compensation
Like all class action settlements, a portion of the total settlement fund is allocated to cover legal fees and expenses incurred by Keller Postman. This is standard practice and ensures that the firm is compensated for its time, resources, and expertise in pursuing the case. The court approved the fees, ensuring they were reasonable and proportionate to the work done.
6. Distribution Timeline: Patience is Key
If you haven't received your check yet, don't panic. Settlement payouts often take time to process and distribute, especially with a large class action like this one. Check the official settlement website or contact the claims administrator for updates on the distribution timeline and to ensure your address is up-to-date.
7. The Settlement Doesn't Erase All Concerns
While the settlement provides compensation for past data privacy breaches, it doesn't guarantee future protection. It's essential to remain vigilant about your online privacy and understand how your data is being collected and used by organizations like the College Board. This settlement serves as a reminder to scrutinize privacy policies and manage your digital footprint.
8. The Settlement's Impact on the College Board: A Wake-Up Call
The settlement has undoubtedly put the College Board on notice regarding its data privacy practices. It serves as a deterrent against future misuse of student data and encourages the organization to adopt more transparent and ethical data handling policies. This increased scrutiny will hopefully lead to improved data protection measures for future test-takers.
9. Beyond the Money: Raising Awareness About Data Rights
The Keller Postman College Board settlement is significant not just for the financial compensation but also for raising awareness about students' data rights. It highlights the importance of understanding how personal information is being used and the potential consequences of data privacy breaches. This increased awareness empowers students and parents to demand greater transparency and control over their data.
10. What's Next for Keller Postman: Continued Advocacy
Keller Postman's success in the College Board case demonstrates their dedication to consumer protection and data privacy. The firm continues to advocate for individuals affected by corporate misconduct and data breaches. Their work highlights the importance of holding organizations accountable for their actions and protecting the rights of consumers in the digital age. This case is likely just one of many where they will champion the rights of individuals against larger corporations.
