Luxottica settles data breach class action lawsuit over 2020 hacking incident

Luxottica, the global leader in eyewear, has agreed to settle a class action lawsuit stemming from a 2020 data breach that compromised the personal and protected health information of more than 829,000 patients. The breach occurred between August 5 and August 9, 2020, when hackers accessed an appointment scheduling application used by Luxottica’s eye care partners. Affected individuals were notified in November 2020, learning that their names, health information, Social Security numbers, and financial data had been exposed.

 

The litigation is consolidated under In re: Luxottica of America Inc. Data Security Breach Litigation in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio alleged that Luxottica failed to implement adequate data security measures. Plaintiffs argued that the breach could have been avoided if reasonable safeguards had been in place. Although Luxottica denies wrongdoing, the company has agreed to the settlement to resolve the dispute and avoid prolonged litigation.

 

Under the terms of the agreement, Luxottica will pay $250,000 to settle claims from individuals whose Social Security numbers or financial information were compromised. Eligible individuals can submit claims for documented out-of-pocket expenses and lost time, capped at 4 hours at $20 per hour. California residents affected by the breach may claim an additional $50 cash payment.

 

Those whose Social Security numbers or financial data were not exposed may claim up to $300 for documented expenses and lost time, with California residents receiving an additional $50. All class members are also eligible for two years of complimentary credit monitoring services through a 3-bureau program.

 

Claims must be submitted through the settlement website (luxotticadatasettlement.com) by January 2, 2025. Depending on the number of valid claims, payments will be adjusted pro rata.

 

The court has granted preliminary approval of the settlement. A final fairness hearing is scheduled for January 21, 2025. The court will determine whether the settlement terms are fair and adequate at this hearing.