Google has agreed to pay $8.75 million to settle a lawsuit over student data collected through Chromebooks in Illinois schools. The settlement addresses alleged privacy violations under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), allowing parents and students to claim compensation for unauthorized collection of biometric data.
Table of Contents
Overview of the $8.75 Million Settlement
The lawsuit, H.K. et al. v. Google LLC, claimed that Google collected biometric data, such as face and voice models, from students without parental consent. The data was created through Google Workspace for Education (G Suite) tools provided to schools. Google denied wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement to avoid protracted litigation. The funds will compensate affected families while covering legal fees and court costs.
Who Is Eligible to Receive Money
To qualify for a payment, individuals must meet all of the following criteria:
- Enrolled in an Illinois school.
- Had access to Google Workspace for Education between March 26, 2015, and May 15, 2025.
- Used features like Voice Match or Face Match that created biometric models.
- Minors must have claims filed by a parent or legal guardian, and any funds received for a child must be used for their benefit.
Estimated Payouts
The total $8.75 million settlement will be divided among all valid claims. After deducting attorney fees and court costs, eligible individuals can expect:
| Estimated Payment | Description |
|---|---|
| $30 – $100 | Per person, depending on the number of valid claims |
Important Deadlines
Key dates for the settlement process include:
- Opt-out or object: September 1, 2025, for those who do not wish to participate or disagree with the settlement terms.
- File a claim: October 16, 2025, is the final date to submit a claim form.
- Court approval hearing: October 14, 2025, to confirm fairness of the settlement.
How to File a Claim
Claims can be submitted online or by mail. Documentation may be required to verify Illinois school enrollment and identity, such as:
- Student ID or report card
- Government-issued ID
- Payments can be received via:
- Direct deposit
- Zelle
- Venmo
- PayPal
- Prepaid Mastercard
- Paper check
Practical Advice for Families
Families should gather school records and identification in advance to avoid delays. Filing promptly ensures eligibility for the full payout window and reduces the risk of complications if additional verification is requested by the settlement administrator.
FAQ
1. Who can file a claim?
Students who attended Illinois schools using Google Workspace between March 26, 2015, and May 15, 2025, or their parents/guardians if minors.
2. How much will I receive?
Payments are estimated between $30 and $100 per eligible person.
3. What is the deadline to file?
All claims must be submitted by October 16, 2025.
4. Can I opt out of the settlement?
Yes, by September 1, 2025, if you wish to preserve the right to sue Google independently.
5. What documentation is required?
Proof of Illinois school enrollment and identity, such as a student ID, report card, or government-issued document.
