Google has reached an $8.75 million settlement in a class action lawsuit claiming it collected biometric information from students in Illinois without proper notice or consent. The case centred on the company’s Google Workspace for Education platform, previously known as G Suite for Education, and its use on school-issued Chromebooks.
The lawsuit alleged that Google’s features, such as Voice Match and Face Match, created unique voice and face models for students without meeting the requirements of the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The law demands that companies inform individuals before collecting biometric identifiers and obtain written consent.
While Google has denied any legal wrongdoing, the company has agreed to the settlement to avoid a prolonged legal battle. Eligible students and parents can now take steps to claim their share of the settlement.
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Who Is Covered by the Settlement
The settlement covers a specific group of people. To qualify, the following conditions must be met:
- Location: Attended a school located in Illinois.
- Access: Had a Google Workspace for Education or G Suite for Education account.
- Timeframe: Used the account between March 26, 2015, and May 15, 2025.
- Biometric Activity: A voice or face model was created from the account, or Voice Match / Face Match was activated.
Minors are included, but claims must be filed by a parent or legal guardian, and any payment must be used for the child’s benefit.
Payment Estimates and Distribution
The settlement fund will be split among eligible claimants after deducting attorney fees, administrative costs, and other approved expenses. Current estimates suggest payouts between $30 and $100 per person, depending on the number of valid claims submitted.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total Settlement Amount | $8.75 million |
| Estimated Payout Range | $30 – $100 |
| Claim Submission Deadline | October 16, 2025 |
| Opt-Out / Objection Deadline | September 1, 2025 |
| Final Approval Hearing | October 14, 2025 |
| Covered Period | March 26, 2015 – May 15, 2025 |
Important Deadlines
There are three key dates participants should note:
- September 1, 2025: Last day to opt out or object to the settlement.
- October 14, 2025: Court will hold a final approval hearing.
- October 16, 2025: Final day to submit a claim for payment.
Missing these deadlines will mean losing the right to participate in the settlement or challenge it.
How to Submit a Claim
Claims can be filed online or by mailing a completed form. Documentation may be requested to confirm eligibility, such as:
- Proof of Illinois school enrollment (student ID, transcript, report card).
- Proof of identity (government-issued ID or similar).
Payments will be made through various methods, including:
- Direct bank deposit
- Zelle
- Venmo
- PayPal
- Prepaid Mastercard
- Paper check
The lawsuit, H.K. et al. v. Google LLC, argued that Google’s biometric data collection violated Illinois law protecting personal identifiers. The allegations focused on technology integrated into school learning tools, which allegedly created biometric profiles for minors without required parental consent. The settlement resolves these claims without a trial, allowing affected individuals to claim compensation while avoiding extended litigation.
The settlement marks a significant resolution for thousands of Illinois students and families who may have been affected by Google’s alleged biometric data collection practices. Those who believe they qualify are urged to review the eligibility rules, gather any necessary documents, and submit their claims before the stated deadlines to ensure they receive any payment they are entitled to.