If you were a customer of Communication Federal Credit Union (CFCU) and received a notice about a data breach, you might be eligible for money from a class action settlement. The credit union has agreed to pay $2.9 million to settle claims related to a cyberattack that happened at the end of 2023 and beginning of 2024. Thousands of people had their personal information exposed, and now there’s a limited time to file a claim for compensation.
The online claim deadline is December 22, 2025. After that date, you won’t be able to get any money from this settlement. Acting quickly is important if you think you qualify.
What Happened in the CFCU Data Breach?
The Cyberattack Details
The data breach took place between December 31, 2023, and January 11, 2024. Hackers gained unauthorized access to CFCU’s systems during this short period. This allowed them to potentially view sensitive customer information.
CFCU is a credit union based in Oklahoma and Kansas. It serves members with banking services like checking accounts, savings, and loans. The breach affected many of its customers across these states and possibly others.
What Information Was Exposed?
The hackers may have accessed very private details, including:
- Full names
- Dates of birth
- Social Security numbers
- Home addresses
- Driver’s license numbers
- Bank account numbers
- Payment card numbers (like debit or credit cards)
This type of information is dangerous in the wrong hands. It can be used for identity theft, opening fake accounts, or making unauthorized purchases.
CFCU notified affected customers by mail when they discovered the issue. If you got one of those letters, you’re likely part of the settlement group.
Why Is There a Settlement?
Customers filed a class action lawsuit against CFCU. They claimed the credit union did not do enough to protect their data from hackers. CFCU denies any wrongdoing but agreed to the $2.9 million settlement to avoid a long court battle.
The settlement provides money to affected people and also includes free identity protection services. A court will have a final approval hearing on January 7, 2026, to decide if the settlement is fair.
Who Is Eligible for the Settlement?
You may qualify if:
- You were a CFCU customer during the breach period.
- Your personal information was potentially exposed.
- You received a data breach notification letter from CFCU (most eligible people did).
Even if you don’t remember getting a letter, you can still check if you qualify by looking for the official settlement website or contacting the administrator (details below).
All eligible class members automatically get three years of identity theft protection with $1 million in insurance coverage. This starts once the settlement is finally approved.
How Much Money Can You Get?
Payouts depend on whether you had actual losses from the breach.
Maximum Payout: Up to $7,500
This is for people who can prove out-of-pocket expenses caused by the breach. Examples include:
- Costs to freeze or monitor your credit
- Fees for replacing IDs or cards
- Money lost to fraud
- Time spent fixing issues (sometimes compensated)
You need to provide proof like receipts, bank statements, or reports.
Smaller Cash Payment: Estimated $125
If you didn’t have direct losses, you can still get a share of the remaining settlement fund. This is called a “pro rata” payment. The exact amount depends on how many people file valid claims, but it’s estimated around $125 per person.
| Type of Payment | Amount | Requirements | Examples of Proof Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Documented Losses | Up to $7,500 | Must show expenses linked to the breach | Receipts, bank statements, credit reports, police reports |
| No Losses (Pro Rata Cash) | Estimated $125 (varies) | Just confirm you were affected | No extra proof needed beyond basic info |
| Identity Protection | 3 years free + $1M insurance | Automatic for all eligible | No claim needed for this benefit |
The final amounts could change based on total claims and court approval.
How to File a Claim Step by Step
Filing is easy and can be done online. Here’s how:
- Check if you got a notice: Look for a letter or email from CFCU or the settlement administrator with your unique ID.
- Visit the official settlement website: Search for “CFCU data breach settlement” or check sites like topclassactions.com for the link. (Avoid fake sites – use trusted sources.)
- Fill out the online form: Provide your personal details and any proof if claiming losses.
- Submit by December 22, 2025: Online is fastest, but you can mail if needed.
If you’re claiming big losses, gather your documents now. Simple claims take just a few minutes.
Don’t wait – the deadline is firm!
Important Deadlines to Remember
- Claim Deadline: December 22, 2025
- Objection or Exclusion Deadline: Already passed (November 21, 2025)
- Final Court Hearing: January 7, 2026
Missing the claim deadline means no money and no protection services beyond what’s automatic.
Why You Should Protect Yourself After a Data Breach
Data breaches like this are common, but they can cause long-term problems. Identity theft might not show up right away. That’s why the free monitoring is valuable.
Tips to stay safe:
- Monitor your bank and credit accounts regularly.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Consider a credit freeze.
- Sign up for free credit reports at annualcreditreport.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need a lawyer to file a claim?
No. You can file yourself for free. Lawyers already handled the case and will get paid from the settlement fund.
2. Is this settlement legitimate?
Yes. It’s a court-approved class action. CFCU agreed to it, and there’s an official process.
3. What if I didn’t get a notification letter?
You might still qualify. Contact the settlement administrator or check the official site.
4. When will I get paid?
After court approval in early 2026. It could take several months.
5. Can I get both the cash and identity protection?
Yes. Protection is automatic, and you can claim cash separately.
6. Is there any cost to file?
No, it’s completely free.
7. What if my claim is denied?
You can appeal or provide more proof, but act fast before the deadline.
Conclusion
The Communication Federal Credit Union data breach exposed sensitive information for many customers, leading to this $2.9 million settlement. If you were affected, this is your last chance to claim up to $7,500 or a smaller cash payment, plus free identity protection.
With the deadline just days away on December 22, 2025, don’t delay. File your claim online today to secure your share. Protecting your personal data is important, and this settlement helps make up for the risk you faced.
Stay vigilant with your finances, and take advantage of this opportunity before it’s gone.