WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued claim forms to nearly 3.7 million consumers impacted by deceptive marketing practices tied to antivirus software sold by Avast.
The FTC’s complaint, filed in February 2024, accused Avast of misleading customers by promising to protect their privacy while failing to disclose that it collected and sold detailed, re-identifiable browsing data. The data, gathered through Avast software, was sold to over 100 third parties via its subsidiary, Jumpshot, according to the allegations.
A settlement agreement requires Avast to pay $16.5 million to provide compensation to affected consumers. Additionally, the company is prohibited from misrepresenting its data usage practices and from selling or licensing browsing data from Avast-branded products for advertising purposes. The agreement also includes other compliance measures aimed at preventing future violations.
The FTC is notifying 3,690,813 customers who purchased Avast antivirus software between August 2014 and January 2020. Eligible recipients will receive email notices between now and March 7, 2025, explaining how to apply for compensation.
Eligible consumers can file a claim at www.ftc.gov/Avast. Payment amounts will vary based on the number of claims filed.
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