You Could Get Up to $5K From AT&T's Data Breach Settlement: Find Out if You're Eligible
AT&T/CNET
Current and former customers of AT&T may have had their information compromised in two data breaches in 2019 and 2024, a situation that the telecom giant is now opting to resolve with a huge settlement payout.
On Friday, June 20, US District Judge Ada Brown granted preliminary approval to the terms of a proposed settlement from AT&T that would resolve two lawsuits related to the data breaches. The current settlement would see AT&T pay $177 million to customers adversely affected by at least one of the two data breaches.
The settlement will prioritize larger payments to customers who suffered damages that are "fairly traceable" to the data leaks. It will also provide bigger payments to those affected by the larger of the two leaks, which began in 2019. While the company is working toward a settlement, it has continued to deny that it was "responsible for these criminal acts."
For all the details we have about the settlement right now, keep reading, and for more info about other recent settlements, find out how to claim Apple's Siri privacy settlement and see if you're eligible for 23andMe's privacy breach settlement.
What happened with these AT&T data breaches?
AT&T confirmed the two data breaches last year, announcing an investigation into the first in March before confirming it in May and confirming the second in July.
The first of the confirmed breaches began in 2019. The company revealed that about 7.6 million current and 65.4 million former account holders had their data exposed to hackers, including names, Social Security numbers and dates of birth. The company began investigating the situation last year after it reported that customer data had appeared on the dark web.
The second breach began in April of 2024, when a hacker broke into AT&T cloud storage provider Snowflake and accessed 2022 call and text records for almost all of the company's US customers, about 109 million in all. The company stressed that no names were attached to the stolen data. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the breach.
Both of these incidents sparked a wave of class action lawsuits alleging corporate neglect on the part of AT&T in failing to sufficiently protect its customers.
Who is eligible to file a claim for the AT&T data breach settlement?
As of now, we know that the settlement will pay out to any current or former AT&T customer whose data was accessed in one of these data breaches, with higher payments reserved for those who can provide documented proof that they suffered damages directly resulting from their data being stolen.
If you're eligible, you should receive a notice about it, either by email or a physical letter in the mail, sometime in the coming months. The company expects that the claims process will begin on Aug. 4, 2025.
How much will the AT&T data breach payments be?
You'll have to "reasonably" prove damages caused by these data breaches to be eligible for the highest and most prioritized payouts. For the 2019 breach, those claimants can receive up to $5,000. For the Snowflake breach in 2024, the max payout will be $2,500. It's not clear at this time how the company might be handling customers who've been affected by both breaches.
AT&T will focus on making those payments first, and whatever's left of the $177 million settlement total will be disbursed to anyone whose data was accessed, even without proof of damages. Because these payouts depend on how many people get the higher amounts first, we can't say definitively how much they will be.
When could I get paid from the AT&T data breach settlement?
AT&T expects that payments will start to go out sometime in early 2026. Exact dates aren't available but the recent court order approving the settlement lists a notification schedule of Aug. 4, to Oct. 17, 2025.
The deadline for submitting a claim is currently set at Nov. 18, 2025. The final approval of the settlement needs to be given at a Dec. 3, 2025, court hearing for payments to begin.
Stay tuned to this piece in the coming months to get all the new details as they emerge.
For more money help, check out CNET's daily tariff price impact tracker.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
36 minutes ago
- Yahoo
This Could Wreck Your Retirement Way More Than Social Security Cuts
Key Points Social Security is facing the possibility of benefit cuts in less than a year's time. Sweeping cuts could upend many workers' retirement plans. One mistake on your part could hurt your retirement finances more so than a broad reduction in Social Security benefits. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › If you've been following the news on Social Security, you may have heard recently that the program is even closer to potentially having to cut benefits. And unfortunately, that's not just a rumor. The most recent Social Security Trustees report contained a pretty dire update. The program's combined trust funds are expected to be depleted by 2034. Once that happens, Social Security may have to cut benefits to the tune of 19%, leaving retirees with just 81% of the monthly checks they'd normally be entitled to. If you're still working, you might assume that not being able to collect your Social Security benefits in full could seriously upend your retirement. But there's another factor that could cause you even more financial pain once your career comes to an end. This mistake could cost you more than Social Security cuts Clearly, the idea of losing 19% of your future Social Security checks is scary. But if you don't save decently for retirement, you could end up in an even scarier situation. One thing to realize about Social Security is that even if benefits are not cut, they'll still only replace about 40% of your pre-retirement wages, assuming you earn a pretty typical salary. Now it's true that retirees can often get by on less money than they needed when they were working. But the general rule of thumb is to expect to need 70% to 80% of your former income in retirement -- not 40%. For some context, the typical Social Security recipient today gets about $2,000 a month. If you're a higher earner, you might get more. But either way, you cannot expect those monthly benefits to cover all of your retirement needs -- not even close. So if you don't make an effort to save for retirement, you could end up in a truly bad spot even if Social Security doesn't end up cutting benefits at all. And to be clear, it's possible that Social Security won't have to move forward with benefit cuts. Though the program's finances are in trouble, lawmakers can look at different ways to avoid a sweeping reduction in benefits. At that point, though, it'll still be on you to help ensure that you don't end up struggling. Relying on Social Security alone is not a good idea, no matter what happens with it. Slow and steady wins the race The idea of building a sizable retirement nest egg might seem daunting. But if you give yourself plenty of time to do it, you may be surprised at how seamlessly those 401(k) or IRA contributions fit into your budget. Imagine you start saving for retirement at age 30, contributing $300 a month. If your portfolio gives you an 8% yearly return, which is a bit below the stock market's average, then by age 65, you could be sitting on about $620,000. Now, let's say you want to limit your withdrawals from savings to 4% per year, which is what experts have long recommended. That gives you about $25,000 of income, which is a nice supplement to your Social Security and a nice cushion against benefit cuts if they do come to be. It's too soon to know what will happen as far as Social Security cuts are concerned. But even if lawmakers can prevent them, you need extra retirement income -- period. The sooner you begin saving, the more confident you should feel that you'll be able to cover your financial needs in the future. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. One easy trick could pay you as much as $23,760 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. Join Stock Advisor to learn more about these Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This Could Wreck Your Retirement Way More Than Social Security Cuts was originally published by The Motley Fool Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Rare Earth Magnets Market Report 2026-2036, with Detailed Analysis of 29 Leading Companies Across the Rare Earth Magnet Value Chain
In 2025, the rare earth magnet market faces unprecedented pressures due to geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and soaring demand from emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and robotics. China's export controls have particularly impacted industries like defense and Tesla's humanoid robots, causing significant ripple effects worldwide. The U.S.'s strategic interventions, including a $400 million investment in MP Materials and Apple's $500 million recycling partnership, highlight efforts to lessen dependency on Chinese exports. The demand for rare earth magnets, valued at $19 billion, continues to grow, underscoring the necessity for alternative technologies and robust domestic supply chains. The report examines the entire supply chain, from mining to recycling, and profiles key industry players. Dublin, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Rare Earth Magnets Market 2026-2036" report has been added to offering. The rare earth magnet market stands at a critical juncture in 2025, shaped by unprecedented geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and explosive demand growth from emerging technologies. The industry's strategic importance has become paramount as governments and corporations recognize these materials as essential infrastructure for the global energy transition and technological advancement. The most significant recent development has been China's implementation of export controls on rare earth magnets beginning in April 2025, which triggered immediate supply chain disruptions across multiple industries. China's rare earth magnet exports to the United States experienced dramatic volatility, with shipments initially halted before surging 660% in June 2025 following trade negotiations. This rebound, while substantial, still leaves overall 2025 exports trailing previous year levels, demonstrating the fragility of current supply arrangements. The export restrictions particularly impacted critical applications including defense systems, electric vehicles, and emerging technologies like Tesla's Optimus humanoid robots. Ford halted production at its Chicago plant due to magnet shortages, while companies across industries depleted stockpiles while scrambling for alternative sources. Despite a temporary trade framework announced in June 2025, implementation remains problematic with companies facing ongoing uncertainty about future supply availability. The crisis has accelerated fundamental restructuring of global rare earth magnet supply chains. The U.S. Department of Defense's $400 million investment in MP Materials represents the largest government intervention in the sector, aimed at creating domestic magnet production capabilities. MP Materials has strategically halted all rare earth exports to China as of April 2025, redirecting focus toward domestic processing and magnet manufacturing at its Mountain Pass facility. Apple's $500 million partnership with MP Materials for recycling facility development exemplifies industry efforts to build resilient domestic supply chains. These initiatives reflect growing recognition that supply chain diversification requires comprehensive investment across the entire value chain, from mining through final magnet production. However, analysts warn that developing complete alternatives to Chinese capabilities will require years rather than months, given the complex separation and processing technologies involved. Market fundamentals remain exceptionally strong despite supply disruptions. Global rare earth magnet demand approaches 385,000 tonnes annually in 2025, valued at approximately $19 billion, with compound annual growth of 7.8% driven primarily by automotive electrification and renewable energy deployment. Emerging applications promise even more dramatic growth. Robotics, currently a small demand category, is forecast to become the single largest driver of neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnet consumption by 2040, driven by professional service robots in manufacturing, hospitality, and transportation. The humanoid robotics sector alone could require massive magnet quantities as production scales toward potential deployment of billions of units. Rising costs and supply uncertainty are driving intensive research into alternative magnet technologies. Cerium-based formulations are gaining attention as substitutes for dysprosium-enhanced magnets, with cerium offering advantages as a light rare earth element avoiding current export restrictions. Companies like Volkswagen's Scout Motors are exploring magnet-free motor designs, while automakers broadly investigate reduced-magnet architectures. However, these alternatives often involve performance trade-offs that limit applicability in high-performance applications. The concept of "demand destruction" through technological substitution represents a long-term market risk, but near-term demand growth from electrification continues to outpace substitution efforts. The rare earth magnet market's evolution represents a fundamental shift from commodity trading toward strategic resource management, with profound implications for global technology deployment, national security, and the pace of energy transition. Success in navigating these challenges will determine which nations and companies maintain technological leadership in the emerging clean energy economy. The Global Rare Earth Magnets Market 2026-2036 report provides the most comprehensive analysis of the rapidly evolving rare earth permanent magnet industry, delivering critical insights into market dynamics, supply chain vulnerabilities, technological innovations, and strategic opportunities across key application sectors. This authoritative 270-page plus report combines deep technical expertise with extensive market research to deliver actionable intelligence for stakeholders navigating the complex rare earth magnet ecosystem. As global demand for high-performance magnetic materials accelerates driven by electrification megatrends, renewable energy deployment, and emerging technologies including humanoid robotics, the rare earth magnet market faces unprecedented supply chain challenges and strategic realignment. With China's dominant position in production and processing creating geopolitical risks, alternative supply chain development has become a critical priority for governments and corporations worldwide. This report examines the complete rare earth magnet value chain from mining and separation through metallization, manufacturing, and recycling, providing detailed analysis of production capacity forecasts, demand projections by application segment, technological innovation pathways, and strategic recommendations for market participants. The analysis covers neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo) permanent magnet technologies across automotive, wind energy, consumer electronics, data centers, robotics, medical imaging, aerospace, marine, and industrial automation applications. Report contents include: Critical materials classification and rare earth magnet technology fundamentals Global market sizing, demand projections, and geographic distribution analysis Supply chain architecture assessment and strategic implications Regulatory environment evolution and policy framework impact Supply Chain and Value Chain Analysis Complete value chain structure from mining through magnet manufacturing Geographic production stage distribution and regional cluster development Market entry barriers, implementation challenges, and competitive dynamics 2025 export restriction impact assessment on dysprosium, terbium, and NdFeB alloys Rare Earth Mining and Production Global mining landscape with detailed regional development analysis North American, Australian, European, South American, and African project pipelines Hard rock versus ionic clay deposit comparison and processing technologies Mining economics, financial modelling, and resource discovery lifecycle analysis Processing and Separation Technologies Comprehensive processing technology comparison including hydrometallurgical and bioleaching methods Solvent extraction, chromatography, and multi-line separation system analysis Global processing capacity forecasts and geographic distribution projections Technology innovation roadmap and development priorities Magnet Manufacturing and Technology Metallization process fundamentals and global capacity control analysis NdFeB and SmCo magnet technology comparison and performance characteristics Sintered and bonded magnet manufacturing processes and innovation developments Grade classification, performance specifications, and cost structure analysis Application Market Analysis Electric vehicle and e-mobility market demand forecasts with motor technology assessment Wind energy sector analysis including turbine technology and magnet requirements Consumer electronics, data centers, and hard disk drive market dynamics Robotics and humanoid robot technology platform analysis Medical imaging, aerospace, marine, and industrial automation applications Recycling Technologies and Circular Economy Short-loop and long-loop recycling technology comparison and performance analysis Feedstock sources, pre-processing challenges, and automation integration Market barriers assessment and industry outlook through 2036 Value chain evolution and circular supply chain development Market Forecasts and Strategic Analysis Production capacity forecasts by geographic region (2026-2036) Demand projections by application segments and materials Supply-demand balance analysis and shortage risk assessment Revenue forecasts, investment opportunities, and risk assessment framework Technology innovation roadmap and competitive dynamics evolution Company Profiles and Competitive Intelligence Detailed analysis of 29 leading companies across the rare earth magnet value chain Strategic positioning, technology focus, and market development initiatives Investment activities, partnership strategies, and capacity expansion plans The report provides comprehensive profiles of 29 leading companies across the rare earth magnet value chain including: Arafura Resources Limited Australian Strategic Materials Ltd (ASM) Carester (Caremag) Cyclic Materials Energy Fuels Inc. Hastings Technology Metals Limited HyProMag Ionic Rare Earths Ionic Technologies JL Mag Lynas Rare Earths Limited MagREEsource Materials Nexus Metalysis MP Materials Corporation Neo Performance Materials Niron Magnetics and more. These profiles examine strategic positioning, technology capabilities, production capacity, market focus, and development initiatives across mining, processing, manufacturing, and recycling operations. For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Connectez-vous pour accéder à votre portefeuille
CNET
an hour ago
- CNET
Refinance Rates Slide Down Again: Refinance Rates for July 28, 2025
For the vast majority of homeowners, there's currently little financial incentive to refinance their mortgages. So far in 2025, average mortgage rates have remained elevated, consistently hovering between 6.5% and 7% due to ongoing economic uncertainty. "If rates fall below 6%, we could see a big jump in refinance activity," said Jeb Smith, licensed real estate agent and member of CNET Money's expert review board. Yet economists and housing market experts don't expect a dramatic drop-off in rates in the immediate future. Mortgage refinance rates fluctuate daily based on a range of economic and political factors. For more insights on where rates might be headed, check out our weekly mortgage rate forecast. When mortgage rates start to fall, be ready to take advantage. Experts recommend shopping around and comparing multiple offers to get the lowest rate. Enter your information here to get a custom quote from one of CNET's partner lenders. About these rates: Bankrate's tool features rates from partner lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates. Current refinance rate trends Early-year projections for mortgage refinance rates were cautiously optimistic. Experts outlined a gradual improvement in housing affordability driven by easing inflation and a series of Federal Reserve rate cuts. However, after three interest rate reductions in 2024, the Fed has left borrowing rates unchanged this year to assess the economic fallout from President Trump's policies on trade, immigration and government spending. The central bank is expected to resume cutting rates as early as September, but this will not immediately result in lower mortgage rates. While adjustments to its benchmark interest rate influence the direction of borrowing rates across the economy, the Fed doesn't directly control the mortgage market. As of now, the Fed is expected to make two 0.25% rate reductions this year. If inflation increases due to tariffs, policymakers may hold off on easing borrowing costs until later, which would keep upward pressure on mortgage refinance rates. Refinance rate predictions Mortgage refinance rates are expected to inch down over the coming months, but are unlikely to drop below 6.5% without multiple interest rate cuts and weaker economic data. Overall, it's unlikely we'll see another refinancing boom like the one in 2020-21 when mortgage rates were exceptionally low around 3%. Nevertheless, refinancing might be beneficial for other reasons, like changing the type of home loan, term length or taking someone off the mortgage. Refinancing 101 When you refinance your mortgage, you take out another home loan that pays off your initial mortgage. With a traditional refinance, your new home loan will have a different term and/or interest rate. With a cash-out refinance, you'll tap into your equity with a new loan that's bigger than your existing mortgage balance, allowing you to pocket the difference in cash. Refinancing can be a great financial move if you score a low rate or can pay off your home loan in less time, but consider whether it's the right choice for you. Reducing your interest rate by 1% or more is an incentive to refinance, allowing you to cut your monthly payment significantly. But refinancing your mortgage isn't free. Since you're taking out a whole new home loan, you'll need to pay another set of closing costs. If you fall into that pool of homeowners who purchased property when rates were high, consider reaching out to your lender and running the numbers to see whether a mortgage refinance makes sense for your budget, said Logan Mohtashami, lead analyst at HousingWire. How to select the right refinance type and term The rates advertised online often require specific conditions for eligibility. Your personal interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your specific credit history, financial profile and application. Having a high credit score, a low credit utilization ratio and a history of consistent and on-time payments will generally help you get the best interest rates. 30-year fixed-rate refinance The average rate for a 30-year fixed refinance loan is currently 6.86%, a decrease of 1 basis point over this time last week. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed refinance will typically have lower monthly payments than a 15-year or 10-year refinance, but it will take you longer to pay off and typically cost you more in interest over the long term. 15-year fixed-rate refinance The average 15-year fixed refinance rate right now is 6.17%, a decrease of 4 basis points compared to one week ago. Though a 15-year fixed refinance will most likely raise your monthly payment compared to a 30-year loan, you'll save more money over time because you're paying off your loan quicker. Also, 15-year refinance rates are typically lower than 30-year refinance rates, which will help you save more in the long run. 10-year fixed-rate refinance For 10-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 6.11%, a decrease of 27 basis points over last week. A 10-year refinance typically has the lowest interest rate but the highest monthly payment of all refinance terms. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much quicker and save on interest, but make sure you can afford the steeper monthly payment. To get the best refinance rates, make your application as strong as possible by getting your finances in order, using credit responsibly and monitoring your credit regularly. And don't forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around. When to consider a mortgage refinance Homeowners usually refinance to save money, but there are other reasons to do so. Here are the most common reasons homeowners refinance: To get a lower interest rate: If you can secure a rate that's at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance. If you can secure a rate that's at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance. To switch the type of mortgage: If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage. If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage. To eliminate mortgage insurance: If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity. If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity. To change the length of a loan term: Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run. Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run. To tap into your equity through a cash-out refinance: If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense. If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense. To take someone off the mortgage: In case of divorce, you can apply for a new home loan in just your name and use the funds to pay off your existing mortgage.
