In a rare move by Google, every Gmail user received an email to notify them of the settlement regarding Google Buzz. Shortly after its launch in February, drama ensued as many users complained of a breach of privacy. A few Buzz users decided to bring a class action lawsuit against Google and apparently won….kinda.
Google says in the email that the settlement “acknowledges that we quickly changed the service to address users’ concerns.” They have also committed $8.5 million to an independent fund dedicated to supporting organizations promoting “privacy education and policy on the web.”
The interesting part is that this settlement is dated September 3rd, so why the email now? From the email:
Just to be clear, this is not a settlement in which people who use Gmail can file to receive compensation. Everyone in the U.S. who uses Gmail is included in the settlement, unless you personally decide to opt out before December 6, 2010.
In short, a settlement was reached, but you are not getting paid unless you go after Google on your own. Good luck with that. Of course, most users still have no idea what Buzz is and probably didn’t even bother reading the email.
For more details on the settlement and how to “opt out, object, or comment” on it, visit http://www.BuzzClassAction.com/