The streaming platform Tubi has been at the center of a significant class action lawsuit alleging violations of user privacy through improper sharing of personally identifiable information with advertisers. The case, Gregory v. Tubi, Inc., culminated in a proposed $19.99 million settlement designed to compensate users whose data was allegedly shared without consent between June 23, 2021, and August 26, 2024.
Tubi Lawsuit Overview and Allegations
The lawsuit claims that Tubi violated the federal Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) by disclosing consumers’ video viewing data to third-party advertisers without explicit user consent. Plaintiffs allege Tubi used sophisticated tracking technologies to collect and share detailed information, including the specific shows and movies users watched, their device details, and location data.
These practices allegedly allowed advertisers to target users with personalized ads based on highly sensitive viewing habits, raising serious privacy concerns. The plaintiffs argued this conduct constituted a clear breach of the VPPA, which was enacted to protect consumers against unauthorized disclosure of their video rental or streaming histories.
Proposed Settlement and Claims Process
The parties agreed to a settlement fund of nearly $20 million to be distributed among affected users who submit timely and valid claims. To participate, Tubi users who accessed the streaming service within the specified time frame could file a claim by the November 28, 2024 deadline.
The amount each claimant will receive depends on the number of claims filed and the deduction of legal and administrative fees. The court preliminarily approved the settlement, with a final approval hearing scheduled for December 4, 2024.
Impact on Streaming Industry Privacy Standards
The Tubi lawsuit highlights the growing scrutiny of privacy practices in the digital streaming industry, where user data has become valuable currency for targeted advertising. The case underscores the need for clear consent mechanisms and robust data protection policies to comply with federal laws like the VPPA.
As the streaming market expands, this lawsuit signals potential increased regulatory and legal pressures on platforms to safeguard consumer information and maintain transparency about data collection and sharing.
Recent Developments and Legal Proceedings
In 2025, a federal judge ruled that Tubi must face the privacy-related lawsuit in court, denying Tubi’s request to compel arbitration. This decision ensures that the claims regarding alleged privacy violations will proceed through formal litigation, providing an avenue for affected users to seek judicial remedies.
The legal battle has attracted attention due to its focus on novel privacy issues arising from streaming technology and data analytics, setting important precedents for consumer protection in the digital age.
Conclusion
The Tubi lawsuit represents a landmark privacy case in the growing arena of digital streaming and data protection. The resolution of this class action will have far-reaching implications for how streaming services handle user data and adhere to privacy laws.
Affected users have a unique opportunity to claim part of the substantial settlement fund, while Tubi commits to improving its privacy practices and user transparency. This case illustrates the evolving legal landscape balancing innovation in online media with fundamental rights to privacy and data security.
