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Path Social Network Text Spam Class Action Lawsuit
By John Curran
Path is a social network designed to target mobile devices, but the company has been facing growing litigation as a result of the software. The most recent comes from Kevin Sterk of Illinois, who says in a class action lawsuit that the service texted him about an update when he had not signed up to receive text messages.
As per other text message spam class action lawsuits, Sterk cites the fact that text messages from unknown sources can be aggravating and distracting, and in addition can cost money depending on one’s contract with a cell service provider. It is also illegal under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), with fines of up to $500 per message and even more for the victims of text message spam.
It is not the only legal problem facing the mobile application company. A multi-million class action settlement could be coming regarding the Path Mobile App Privacy Class Action Lawsuit. Plaintiffs in the case allege the company used the application to secretly track usage and upload contacts from device owners’ address books.
In fact, Path settled with the government under a COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act) claim regarding children’s usage of the social network who were under the age of 13.
Text spam class action lawsuits can result in millions of dollars in settlement awards. Google, for example, recently agreed to a $6 million class action lawsuit settlement over allegations its Slide Disco subsidiary sent unsolicited text messages to consumers.
A settlement in the Path text spam class action lawsuit could also be in the millions of dollars, especially given the thousands of users who have used Path networks and, according to Sterk’s class action lawsuit, received unwanted texts. However, mobile applications do have some differences compared to websites. On Android devices, for example, permissions are shown for each application, and they can include the sending or receiving of text messages.
However, at the time of publication, there was no such listing, although Path now tells users that it may access the contacts in a device. The fact that there is no mention of SMS access could lend credence to these claims, especially during the class certification process.
People who have dealt with text spam from Path or any other firm do have options. Learn more about yours at the Text Message Spam, Cell Phone Call TCPA Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Investigation. While there, you can get a free consultation with one of our partner text message spam lawsuit attorneys and learn more about your legal options.
As more consumers become aware of these protections, it is important to find competent legal representation to ensure that their claim gets the best possible result. Start now to see what yours are.
Updated April 9th, 2013
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One thought on Path Social Network Text Spam Class Action Lawsuit
Is there a link where I can actually submit my information for this lawsuit?