Employee Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) Lawsuit
Case Overview
This lawsuit is one of thousands filed under Illinois' unique and powerful Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The law mandates that private companies must obtain informed written consent from individuals before collecting, using, or storing their biometric identifiers, such as fingerprints or facial scans.
The class action alleges that the defendant company required employees to use a fingerprint-scanning time clock system without first providing them with the required legal disclosures or obtaining a written release. BIPA allows for statutory damages of $1,000 for each negligent violation and $5,000 for each intentional or reckless violation, making these cases extremely high-stakes for employers in Illinois and setting a national precedent for biometric privacy rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue my employer for using fingerprint timekeeping without my consent?
Yes, if your Illinois employer used a fingerprint-based timekeeping system without obtaining your informed written consent, you may have a claim under the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). BIPA requires employers to provide written notice and get explicit consent before collecting or using biometric data like fingerprints.
How do I get money from a BIPA fingerprint lawsuit settlement?
If you're part of a class action settlement, you'll typically need to submit a claim form with proof of employment and biometric data collection by the deadline. Settlements can provide per-person payments ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the case and number of eligible employees.
Is there a class action against my employer for biometric data collection?
Several class actions have been filed against Illinois employers for improper biometric data collection. Check the court filings or settlement websites to see if your employer is named as a defendant and whether you're eligible to join or file a claim.