The Gaia VPPA class action settlement stems from a legal case involving Gaia, Inc., a popular streaming service specializing in wellness content such as yoga and meditation. The complaint in question, Guida v. Gaia, Inc., claims that Gaia unlawfully shared user viewing information with third parties, violating the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA). As part of the settlement, Gaia has agreed to create a $2 million fund to compensate U.S. subscribers who accessed its service between September 12, 2020, and July 19, 2024, and who were active Facebook users while watching pre-recorded videos on Gaia’s websites.
How the Settlement Works
The $2 million settlement fund will be distributed on a pro-rata basis, meaning all eligible claimants will receive an equal share of the net proceeds after deducting court-approved administrative costs, legal fees, and any other authorized expenses.
Who Can File a Claim?
To qualify for compensation, you must meet the following criteria:
Be a U.S. resident.
Have subscribed to or accessed Gaia’s services between September 12, 2020, and July 19, 2024.
Have watched pre-recorded content, including on-demand replays, on Gaia’s websites (gaia.com or yogainternational.com) using a web browser.
Be an active Facebook user at the time of accessing Gaia’s videos.
Settlement Fund and Distribution
Gaia will set up a $2 million settlement fund to benefit eligible members of the settlement class who file claims. The fund will be split evenly among those who properly submit claims, after deductions for various costs such as:
Administrative expenses
Taxes and related costs
Attorney fees awarded by the court
Any service awards for plaintiffs
Other court-approved deductions
Additional Relief
In addition to financial compensation, the settlement requires Gaia to stop using Facebook’s Tracking Pixel on pages that contain videos on its websites. This injunction will remain in effect until the VPPA is amended or overturned by higher courts, such as the U.S. Supreme Court or the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals.
How to File a Claim
If you’re eligible for the settlement, follow these steps:
Visit the official settlement website at gaiavppasettlement.com for all the necessary details and forms.
Confirm your eligibility by reviewing the criteria listed on the website.
Complete the claim form with your personal and contact information.
Submit your claim either online or by mail. Make sure to submit it before the deadline on December 2, 2024.
Keep a copy of your claim form and any correspondence related to the settlement.
Important Dates
Key dates for the Gaia VPPA class action settlement include:
Fairness Hearing: December 9, 2024, when the court will review the settlement.
Payment Timeline: If approved, payments will be made within 90 days after final court approval and the resolution of any appeals.
Payment Options: Claimants will have two payment options—either through electronic transfer or a paper check.
Unclaimed Funds: Any unclaimed or returned funds will be redistributed to eligible claimants, but only if they qualify for a secondary distribution of at least $5.
Don’t miss out—if you’re eligible, file your claim soon and ensure you’re part of this settlement.
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