If you’ve ever watched a video on one of the Christian Broadcasting Network’s websites using your login credentials between March 28, 2022, and May 28, 2024, you could be owed money from a recent $4 million class action settlement. This legal action centers around allegations that the network improperly shared users’ video viewing data with Meta (Facebook’s parent company) through a tracking tool known as Meta Pixel—without getting user consent.
While the Christian Broadcasting Network denies any wrongdoing, it agreed to settle to avoid further litigation.
Why This Lawsuit Matters
This case hinges on the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA)—a federal law designed to protect consumers from unauthorized sharing of their video viewing history. The lawsuit claims Christian Broadcasting Network violated the VPPA by using Meta Pixel on its sites, which allegedly tracked and shared what users were watching with Meta.
In response, the network has agreed not only to pay $4 million but also to suspend its use of Meta Pixel and similar tracking technologies that conflict with the VPPA going forward.
Who Qualifies for a Settlement Payment?
You’re eligible to file a claim if you:
- Used login credentials for any Christian Broadcasting Network website, and
- Requested or viewed video content through their services between March 28, 2022, and May 28, 2024.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Eligibility Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Timeframe | March 28, 2022 – May 28, 2024 |
| Action | Logged into a CBN website and viewed or requested video content |
| Platform | Any Christian Broadcasting Network website |
If that applies to you—even once—you may be entitled to a cash payment.
How Much Will You Receive?
There’s no fixed payout amount right now. The final payment depends on:
- The number of people who file valid claims
- Administrative costs, attorney fees, and other deductions from the $4 million fund
Once these are subtracted, the remaining balance will be split evenly among all approved claimants.
How to File a Claim
To get your portion of the settlement:
- Submit a claim form online or by mail.
- The claim form must be valid and submitted by April 29, 2025.
No proof of purchase or documentation is required, but providing accurate information will help ensure your eligibility is verified.
Important Dates
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| April 29, 2025 | Deadline to submit your claim or opt out/object |
| July 17, 2025 | Final approval hearing for the settlement |
If you do nothing, you won’t receive a payment and will give up your right to sue separately.
What Happens Next?
After the final approval hearing on July 17, 2025, and assuming the court approves the settlement, payments will be issued to eligible class members. Timing can vary, but settlements often take a few months to be processed and paid out after final approval.
This settlement not only compensates affected users but also signals a shift toward greater digital privacy protections. CBN’s agreement to stop using certain tracking tools shows a growing awareness—and legal pressure—around how user data is collected and shared online.
FAQs:
1. Do I need to provide proof I watched videos on CBN?
No proof is required, but you must submit an accurate and valid claim form by the deadline.
2. Can I still sue CBN if I take the settlement?
No. By accepting the settlement, you waive your right to sue CBN over the same issue.
3. What if I don’t want to be part of the settlement?
You can exclude yourself or object by April 29, 2025.