First Advantage Form I-9 Data Breach Settlement – In early 2024, First Advantage Corporation, a major background screening company, experienced a significant cybersecurity incident involving its Form I-9 database. This breach exposed sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, passport data, and employment records. In response, the company agreed to a $650,000 class action settlement to compensate affected individuals. If you received a notice or believe you may be impacted, here’s everything you need to know about who’s eligible and how to claim your settlement.
First Advantage Form I-9 Data Breach Settlement
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Settlement Amount | $650,000 total fund |
| Eligibility | U.S. residents whose data was affected by the breach |
| Claim Options | Cash Payment A (up to $1,500), Cash Payment B ($50), Identity Monitoring |
| Claim Deadline | May 14, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | May 19, 2025 |
| Official Website | formi9datasettlement.com |
If your personal data was compromised in the First Advantage Form I-9 data breach, you may be entitled to monetary compensation or free identity protection services. With a straightforward claims process and a deadline of May 14, 2025, it’s crucial to act now. Visit the official settlement website to check your eligibility and file your claim securely.
What Was the First Advantage Form I-9 Data Breach?
The data breach occurred on or around February 5, 2024, when unauthorized individuals accessed Form I-9 records processed by First Advantage. These forms, required by the U.S. government to verify employment eligibility, contain highly sensitive personal details such as full legal names, Social Security numbers, driver’s license or passport numbers, and addresses and employment history.
Following the breach, First Advantage notified the affected individuals and took steps to secure its systems. In the wake of public scrutiny and legal action, the company agreed to a settlement that includes financial compensation and identity protection services.
Scope and Impact of the Data Breach
While the exact number of affected individuals hasn’t been publicly disclosed, security experts estimate that thousands of individuals who underwent employment verification through First Advantage during late 2023 and early 2024 could have had their data exposed. This breach is considered serious due to the nature of the data involved—especially Social Security numbers and identity documents, which are prime targets for identity theft.
In the weeks following the breach, many affected individuals reported phishing attempts and suspicious activities related to their email or bank accounts, indicating that some of the compromised data may already be circulating on the dark web.
Who Is Eligible for the First Advantage Form I-9 Data Breach Settlement?
You may be eligible if:
- You are a resident of the United States;
- Your personal information was accessed or acquired during the Form I-9 data breach;
- You received a notice from First Advantage confirming your inclusion.
If you are uncertain, you can still file a claim through the settlement website. The Settlement Administrator will verify your eligibility based on available records.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
The settlement offers three types of relief, allowing claimants to choose what suits their needs best:
Option 1: Cash Payment A (Documented Losses)
- Up to $1,500 for ordinary out-of-pocket losses related to the breach (e.g., bank fees, phone charges, credit monitoring services).
- Up to $5,000 for extraordinary losses, such as identity theft or fraud, provided you submit documented proof (e.g., police reports, bank statements).
Note: This option requires evidence of loss and documentation. Claims will be reviewed and validated before approval.
Option 2: Cash Payment B (Flat Rate Payment)
- A flat $50 payment for those who prefer a simpler process and do not want to provide documentation.
Note: You can opt for this even if you haven’t experienced a financial loss but were affected by the breach.
Option 3: Free Identity Monitoring Services
All claimants, regardless of their cash payment choice, can receive 12 months of identity protection services, which includes:
- Credit monitoring from one bureau
- Dark web monitoring
- Identity restoration assistance
- Up to $1 million in identity theft insurance
These services aim to safeguard your information from further misuse.
How to File a Claim for First Advantage Form I-9 Data Breach Settlement?
Filing your claim is simple and can be done either online or by mail. Here’s a breakdown:
Step 1: Choose Your Claim Type
Decide whether you want:
- Documented losses (Cash A), or
- Flat payment (Cash B), or
- Identity monitoring (can be claimed with A or B)
Step 2: Gather Required Information
Prepare your:
- Notice ID and Confirmation Code (if available)
- Proof of loss (if claiming Cash A)
- Personal details: name, address, email
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
Online:
Visit formi9datasettlement.com and complete the secure form.
By Mail:
Print the claim form, fill it out, and mail it to:
Form I-9 Cybersecurity Incident Settlement
c/o Settlement Administrator
1650 Arch Street, Suite 2210
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Deadline: Claims must be submitted or postmarked by May 14, 2025.
Additional Tips for Claimants
- Check your inbox and spam folder for the official claim notice.
- Keep documentation safe: If you plan to submit for Cash Payment A, ensure all receipts or reports are clear and dated.
- Monitor your credit now even before enrolling in the provided monitoring. Free tools like AnnualCreditReport.com offer access to reports from all three bureaus.
- Be cautious of scams: Only use the official settlement site to file your claim.
When Will You Receive Your Payment?
All valid claims will be processed after the final settlement approval hearing on May 19, 2025. Once the court gives final approval:
- Payments will be distributed via check or electronic transfer.
- Identity monitoring activation codes will be sent via email or mail.
Delays can occur depending on how many claims are submitted, but most eligible individuals should expect payment by late 2025.
Legal and Administrative Details
- Settlement Fund: $650,000 total, including attorney fees and administrative costs
- Attorney Fees: Up to $216,666.67 will be allocated to attorneys
- Remaining Funds: Distributed among claimants proportionally if the number of claims exceeds the available fund
The settlement has been carefully reviewed by the court and parties involved to ensure fair compensation for all victims.
Why This Matters?
Cybersecurity incidents like this one highlight the growing threat to personal data and the responsibility corporations have in safeguarding that information. This settlement is a step toward accountability and offers affected individuals tangible support to recover and protect their identities.
By filing a claim, you’re not only seeking compensation but also contributing to a larger push for better data protection practices across industries.
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FAQs About First Advantage Form I-9 Data Breach Settlement
What is Form I-9?
Form I-9 is a mandatory U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services document used to verify an employee’s identity and employment authorization.
I didn’t get a notice. Can I still file a claim?
Yes, you can still file a claim. The Settlement Administrator will determine your eligibility based on internal records.
Is the settlement legit?
Yes. This class action was filed in federal court, and the settlement was negotiated and approved by legal representatives and reviewed by a judge.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
If you do not submit your claim by May 14, 2025, you will forfeit your right to receive any payment or benefits from the settlement.
Can I opt out of the settlement?
Yes. If you wish to pursue separate legal action or not be bound by this agreement, you must opt out by the deadline listed on the official site.
How can I contact the Settlement Administrator?
You can contact them via the website’s contact form or by mailing your inquiry to the same address used for paper claims.
