Quick Answer: Forbes Media agreed to a $10 million settlement over claims that its websites used tracking tools to collect visitors’ IP addresses without consent. If you are a California resident who accessed Forbes websites between December 20, 2023 and June 11, 2026, you can file a claim by November 9, 2026. No documents are required, and payments come from the net fund after fees and costs.
Key Takeaways
- Settlement fund: $10 million, with no money returning to Forbes
- Claim deadline: November 9, 2026
- Opt out and objection deadline: September 24, 2026 (already passed)
- Final approval hearing: December 2, 2026, 2:00 p.m. PT, San Francisco
- Only California residents are covered
- No documents or receipts are needed
- Forbes denies wrongdoing
Quick Summary
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Settlement fund | $10,000,000 |
| Class period | December 20, 2023 to June 11, 2026 |
| Who is covered | California residents who accessed Forbes websites |
| Claim deadline | November 9, 2026 |
| Final approval hearing | December 2, 2026, 2:00 p.m. PT |
| Attorney fees requested | Up to 25% ($2.5 million) |
| Service awards | $2,500 per named plaintiff |
| Settlement website | mediasitetrackersettlement.com (run by Kroll) |
| Case | Berman et al. v. Forbes Media LLC, No. 3:24-cv-09287-WHO, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California |
What the Forbes Settlement Is About
The lawsuit says Forbes placed tracking tools on its websites that sent visitors’ IP addresses to third parties without asking permission. Plaintiffs argue that the tools work like a “trap and trace” device, which California’s Invasion of Privacy Act (Penal Code section 638.51) restricts without consent. They also bring a claim under California’s Unfair Competition Law.
Forbes denies wrongdoing, and the court has not ruled on the claims. The settlement ends the case without an admission of fault. It follows a wave of similar California website tracking settlements, including the GoodRx settlement.
Who Qualifies
You qualify if you were a California resident and accessed a Forbes website between December 20, 2023 and June 11, 2026. You do not need a Forbes subscription or account.
How Much Will You Get?
No per person amount has been announced. Payments come from the net fund after administration costs, attorney fees (requested at up to 25%, or $2.5 million) and service awards. The more people who file, the smaller each payment. See how class action payouts are calculated.
How to File a Claim
- Find your notice email or postcard and keep your Class Member ID, if you have one.
- Type the settlement website address, mediasitetrackersettlement.com, directly into your browser. Do not click links in unsolicited messages.
- Complete the online claim form. Trackers report that a Class Member ID is used for the online form, and a mailed paper form with a sworn statement is the alternative.
- Submit by November 9, 2026.
- Save your confirmation.
Filing is free, and you do not need to upload any documents. See how to claim settlement money and what to do when you get a class action notice.
What If You Missed the Opt Out Deadline?
The deadline to opt out or object was September 24, 2026. If you did not opt out, you are bound by the settlement and can still file a claim. If you do nothing, you receive no payment and give up the right to sue Forbes over these claims.
When Will Payments Be Made?
Not before the final approval hearing on December 2, 2026 and the end of any appeals. Payment usually follows in the months after approval.
Watch for Scams
Only use the website named in your court approved notice. Never pay a fee to file, and never share your full Social Security number or bank login. Report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and read our guide to class action settlement scams.
Is the Payment Taxable?
Privacy settlement payments may count as taxable income. See is settlement money taxable and check with a tax professional.
Common Questions About the Forbes Settlement
Can I still file a Forbes settlement claim?
Yes, until November 9, 2026.
I do not live in California. Can I file?
No. The class covers California residents only.
How much will I get from the Forbes settlement?
There is no official figure. Your share of the net fund depends on how many valid claims are filed.
Do I need a Forbes account or proof of visiting the site?
No documents are required. You confirm your California residency and site use in the claim form.
What law is the Forbes lawsuit based on?
California’s Invasion of Privacy Act (Penal Code section 638.51) and the Unfair Competition Law. Forbes denies the claims.
Is the Forbes settlement real?
Yes. It is Berman et al. v. Forbes Media LLC, No. 3:24-cv-09287-WHO, pending in federal court in San Francisco. Verify any message you receive against your official notice.
Summary
The Forbes settlement sets aside $10 million for California residents who visited Forbes websites from December 2023 to June 2026. File by November 9, 2026, and see our open class action settlements for other claims.