Avast to pay $16.5 million to antivirus software users: How to claim, deadline, and other details

Avast will pay $16.5 million to millions of its antivirus software users following a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced. The FTC is sending claim forms to consumers who bought deceptively marketed antivirus software from Avast.

Why Is Avast Paying a Settlement?

The FTC accused Avast of misleading customers by claiming its software protected users' privacy while secretly collecting and selling their detailed browsing data through its subsidiary, Jumpshot. This information, which included financial status, political views, health concerns, and locations, was allegedly sold to more than 100 third parties without proper disclosure.

As part of a settlement agreement, Avast will have to pay $16.5 million to compensate affected consumers. It also has to stop selling or licensing user browsing data from Avast-branded products for advertising. Under the agreement with FTC, Avast has to be transparent about data collection in the future as well.

Who Is Eligible for a Payment?

The FTC is notifying 3,690,813 consumers who purchased Avast’s antivirus software between August 2014 and January 2020. Emails will be sent to eligible users between now and March 7, 2025.

According to FTC, eligible consumers can submit claims at its website (www.ftc.gov/Avast). As per it, the final payment amounts will vary based on the total number of claimants.

You have to make a claim before the deadline - June 5, 2025 - to be eligible for the settlement. For assistance, consumers can contact the claims administrator on 866-290-0165 or email info@AvastSettlement.com. The FTC emphasises that no payment or account information is required for claim submission or refund receipt.

How to File a Claim

Check your email for a claim number from the FTC.
Visit www.ftc.gov/Avast to submit your claim online.
The deadline to file is June 5, 2025.
Payment amounts will vary based on the total number of claims filed.

When Will Payments Be Sent?

Refunds will be processed by mail in 2026. The exact payment date will be announced on the FTC settlement website.