The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has started distributing payments totaling nearly $15.3 million to consumers affected by deceptive marketing practices linked to Avast antivirus software. The payments follow a settlement reached in June 2024, after the FTC alleged that Avast collected, stored, and sold users’ browsing information without adequate notice or consent.
According to the FTC, Avast’s browser extensions and antivirus products gathered detailed user data while claiming to block third-party tracking and protect consumer privacy. The agency found that Avast failed to properly inform users that their browsing information would be sold in a re-identifiable form.
As part of the settlement, Avast is now required to provide financial redress to impacted customers and is barred from selling or licensing web browsing data for advertising purposes.
The FTC is sending checks, PayPal transfers, and Zelle payments to 103,152 eligible Avast customers who filed valid claims. Recipients were able to select their preferred payment method when submitting their claim forms. Those receiving checks are advised to cash them within 90 days; PayPal recipients have 30 days to redeem their payments. Zelle payments are deposited directly into recipients’ accounts.
Consumers with questions about the refund process can contact Rust Consulting, Inc., at 1-866-290-0165 or visit the FTC website for more information on frequently asked questions related to refunds. The FTC emphasizes that it never requires individuals to pay money or provide account details in order to file a claim or receive a refund.
Interactive dashboards on the FTC’s website offer state-by-state breakdowns of refund distributions resulting from enforcement actions. In 2024 alone, FTC activities led to over $339 million in refunds for consumers nationwide.
The agency continues its work promoting competition and educating consumers about scams and fraudulent business practices. More resources are available at consumer.ftc.gov and ReportFraud.ftc.gov. The public can also stay updated by following the FTC on social media channels and subscribing for alerts.
