Columbus Regional Health System (CRHS) is paying $1.17 million to settle a class action lawsuit stemming from its recent data breaches. The settlement gives affected people the chance to claim as much as $5,000 in damages.
During the cyber incidents between May 19 and May 21, 2023, sensitive personal and medical information was breached, affecting around 132,800 people.
If you have been affected, you may be entitled to receive a cash payment. Here is everything you need to know about the settlement, eligibility and how to claim your money.
What Happened?
Hackers accessed the CRHS database from May 19 to 21, 2023, thus compromising personal and medical information. According to the settlement website, the information exposed consists of:
- Full names
- Addresses
- Dates of birth
- Social Security numbers
- Medical history
- Health insurance information
While CRHS denies any wrong doing, the plaintiffs alleged that improper cybersecurity measures led to the hacking incident. As a result, the healthcare system negotiated to settle for $1.17 million to compensate the affected persons.
Who is Qualified?
Individuals affected by the breach in CRHS data are eligible for filing reimbursement claims for financial losses incurred or for taking steps towards protection of identity; hence, settlement provides types of compensation as follows:
1.Personal Expense Loss (Up to $5,000 per individual)
- Losses incurred through fraudulent or identity theft acts that are unreimbursed
- Legal fees comprising attorneys, accountants, or credit repair companies
- Charges for freezing or unfrozen credit at reporting agencies
- Costs of credit monitoring from the time of breach to that of the claims deadline
- Miscellaneous costs ranging from notary fees, postage, fax, photocopies, and travel costs
2.Cash Payment ($50 per claimant; amount subject to change at its discretion)
- A pro rata cash payment is also given to recipients who do not claim an actual loss.
- This amount is expected to be around $50 per person; however, the real amount may change as the number of claims increases or decreases.
Who Benefits from Receiving $5,000?
In qualifying for the $5,000 stimulus payment, applicants must satisfy specific eligibility requirements which are slightly varied depending on settlement terms. Here are some general requirements:
- Proof of Impact – You must show that your personal data was compromised in a confirmed data breach.
- Financial Losses – If you suffered financial harm due to identity theft or fraud as a result of the breach, you may qualify for the highest compensation tier.
- Participation in a Class Action Lawsuit – Some settlements require victims to be part of a class action lawsuit to allow compensation.
- Filing a Claim – Eligible individuals must file a valid claim before the deadline specified in the settlement agreement.
- Identity Theft Protection – Some settlements require proof that you took steps to mitigate damages, such as enrolling in credit monitoring services.
Claim Filing:
To be eligible for compensation, a claimant must submit a valid Claim Form before the expiration of the period for claims.
They can be submitted in one of the following ways:
- On-line through the official settlement website
- By mailing the printed and completed claim form
Major Deadlines
- Claim Submission deadline: 2nd of April, 2025
- Final Settlement Approval Hearing: 9th April, 2025; Time: 2:00 PM ET
Conclusion
If you were among the people affected by the data breach of Columbus Regional Health System, this settlement could give you some monetary relief. Whether you incurred some costs from identity theft or just want the $50 cash payment, make a claim before April 2, 2025. Stay tuned for updates on the final approval hearing.
FAQS:
Who’s included in the settlement?
Those affected by the CRHS data breach from May 19-21, 2023.
How much can I get?
You could get $5,000 for personal losses, or $50 in cash.
When can I file a claim?
File an online or mail claim before April 2, 2025.
What kind of losses are covered?
Fraud losses and losses that were incurred for legal fees, credit monitoring, etc.
When will the final approval hearing occur?
The hearing will take place on April 9, 2025, at 2:00 in the afternoon, Eastern time.