Google and YouTube to Pay $30 Million in Children’s Privacy Case

Google and YouTube have agreed to pay $30 million to resolve a class action lawsuit that accused them of illegally collecting data from children under 13 who watched child-focused videos.

Good to Know

• The settlement covers U.S. children under 13 who viewed YouTube’s child-directed content between July 1, 2013, and April 1, 2020.
• No proof of viewing is required to file a claim.
• Claims are due by January 21, 2026, and payments will depend on the number of valid submissions.

The lawsuit alleged that Google and YouTube violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) by tracking viewing data from minors without obtaining parental consent. The data was reportedly used to serve targeted advertising, a practice restricted under federal privacy laws.

As part of the settlement, guardians representing class members may receive service awards of up to $1,500 each for their involvement. The final hearing to approve the settlement is scheduled for January 13, 2026, in federal court.

While agreeing to the payout, Google denied any wrongdoing, stating that the settlement was meant to avoid lengthy litigation. Payments to eligible claimants will be distributed on a pro-rata basis—meaning individual payouts will vary based on how many valid claims are filed after legal and administrative costs are deducted.

The case traces back to a 2019 California lawsuit that focused on how major tech companies handle children’s data and comply with COPPA protections. The class action built upon findings that YouTube collected viewing history and device information from minors, even on content clearly designed for kids.

The settlement is one of several major privacy-related cases Google has faced in recent years. It follows earlier agreements with the Federal Trade Commission and New York Attorney General, which together required Google to pay $170 million in 2019 over similar COPPA violations.

To file a claim, eligible individuals—or their guardians—can submit applications online or by mail before the January 2026 deadline. Claimants do not need to show proof of specific videos viewed but must certify that the child used YouTube to watch child-directed content within the covered dates.

FAQ

Who is eligible for the settlement?

Children under 13 in the United States who watched child-directed videos on YouTube between July 2013 and April 2020.

How much money will claimants receive?

Exact payout amounts depend on how many valid claims are filed, as payments will be distributed proportionally from the $30 million fund.

When is the deadline to file?

Claims must be filed by January 21, 2026.

Do I need proof that my child watched YouTube?

No proof is required; a sworn statement confirming eligibility is sufficient.