Get one of those $36.29 direct deposits from Facebook? Here’s what you should know

Have you recently noticed a direct deposit of $36.29 from Meta in your bank account and are unsure if you are allowed to keep it? The company responsible for managing the process has confirmed that you can keep the payment, but there are certain conditions attached to it.

This payment is a result of a class action settlement with Meta, formerly known as Facebook. The lawsuit alleged that the company had used individuals’ Facebook photos without their consent as part of an advertising tool. Nick Greenfield from MNP Ltd., the class action claims administrator, stated that eligible class members had to reside in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, or Newfoundland and Labrador within the class period of January 1, 2011, through May 31, 2014. However, some members who currently reside in different provinces may also be eligible to receive the payment.

Greenfield mentioned that electronic transfers of $36.29 were issued to individuals who submitted a claim earlier this month. This case, which took more than a decade to resolve, has impacted a significant number of people. Sharon Polsky, the president of the Privacy & Access Council of Canada, emphasized the importance of individuals questioning the legitimacy of such payments due to the prevalence of fraud and scams.

Polsky raised concerns regarding the use of children’s images without proper notification or consent. She emphasized the need to address the implications of such actions, especially for individuals who were minors at the time. A Facebook user from Calgary, Cathy Antaya, shared her experience of receiving two deposits without initially understanding the reason behind them. Upon further investigation, she realized that the payments were related to the class action settlement.

However, it is important to note that not everyone is eligible to accept the payment. Greenfield advised that individuals who did not reside in the specified provinces during the class period should refrain from accepting the payment, as they do not meet the criteria to be considered class members. For any inquiries or clarifications, individuals can contact Meta directly at facebooksettlement@mnp.ca.

In conclusion, if you have received a $36.29 deposit from Meta as part of the class action settlement, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria before accepting the payment. Stay informed and vigilant about such legal proceedings to protect your rights and privacy.