In today’s digital world, your personal information is stored in hospitals, banks, shopping websites, and many other places. When a company fails to protect this information, it can fall into the wrong hands. This is called a data breach.
Victims of data breaches often wonder, “Can I sue?” or “How much can I claim for a data breach?” In Illinois, the answer depends on many factors. This article will explain what a data breach is, your rights, and what you may be able to recover if your private information was exposed.
What Is a Data Breach?
A data breach happens when someone accesses your personal data without permission. This includes your Social Security number, bank account information, medical records, or passwords.
Sometimes hackers break into a company’s system that stores personal information. Other times, an employee may lose a laptop or accidentally send information to the wrong person. In either case, the results can be serious. Thieves may open fake credit cards, steal money, or even take out loans in your name. It can take months or even years to fix the damage.
Can You Sue for a Data Breach in Illinois?
Yes, you can. In Illinois, there are strong laws to protect your privacy. The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) is one example. It protects things like fingerprints and facial scans. If a company breaks this law, you may be able to sue.
Even if biometric data isn’t involved, you may still have legal rights under other state or federal laws. If a company was careless with your private data and you suffered harm, you may be able to file a personal injury or class action lawsuit.
How Much Money Can You Claim?
The amount of money you can claim for a data breach depends on several things. First, your lawyer will look at how badly the breach affected you. Some people suffer financial losses. Others feel a lot of fear, anxiety, or emotional distress. Some victims deal with identity theft for years.
Possible compensation may include:
- Financial losses: If someone used your credit cards or stole your money
- Emotional distress: If you experienced stress or anxiety because your data was exposed
- Time spent: If you had to spend hours fixing credit reports or contacting banks
- Future risk: If your data is still out there and could be used again
In some cases, you may also get punitive damages. These are extra payments meant to punish a company for being especially careless with your private information. Each case is unique. Some people may receive only a few hundred dollars. Others may receive thousands in compensation or even more if the harm was severe.
Class Action Lawsuits and What They Mean
Class action settlements can lead to payments for each person, depending on the size of the case and the amount of harm done. Even if you didn’t lose money directly, you might still be able to receive compensation.
You can typically join a class action lawsuit by filling out a simple online form. A lawyer can help you decide whether joining a class action or filing your own case is the better choice.
How Illinois Laws Help Protect You
Illinois is one of the best states when it comes to protecting your data. The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) allows victims to sue for up to $5,000 for each violation. That means if a company collected your fingerprint without your permission, you might be able to get thousands of dollars in damages.
Illinois also follows the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). This law requires businesses to notify you if your data was breached. If they don’t tell you quickly, they may face legal consequences.
These laws give you real power. But they only work if you take action. Talking to an Illinois personal injury lawyer is the best way to understand your rights and how much you can claim.
Contact Our Peoria Personal Injury Lawyer at Joel E. Brown, P.C. for Help After a Data Breach
A data breach can feel scary and overwhelming. But you’re not alone and don’t have to suffer in silence. In Illinois, strong privacy laws are on your side.
If your personal data was exposed, you may have a legal right to compensation. By speaking with a trusted Peoria personal injury lawyer, you can learn how much you might be able to claim and take the first step toward recovery. Call Joel E. Brown, P.C. for a free consultation.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers At Joel E. Brown, P.C. in Peoria, IL for Assistance Today
If you have questions or are injured due to the improper use of fireworks, contact Joel E. Brown, P.C. We offer a free consultation with a Peoria personal injury lawyer.
We are conveniently located in Peoria and proudly serve Peoria County, IL, and the neighboring communities.
Joel E. Brown, P.C
416 Main Street Suite 1300, Peoria, IL 61602
(309) 673 4357
Available 24/7