A significant deadline is rapidly approaching for banking customers who may have been victims of a cyberattack. If you are a member of Communication Federal Credit Union you could be eligible for a cash payment of up to $7,500. This payout is part of a $2.9 million class action settlement designed to resolve claims regarding a data breach that occurred in late 2023 and early 2024.
With the holidays around the corner and the final cutoff date set for December 22, 2025 eligible Americans need to act immediately. The settlement offers financial relief for those who had their personal information compromised and provides additional security services for peace of mind. Here is everything you need to know to secure your payment before the window closes.
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Details of the Cyberattack and Stolen Data
The lawsuit stems from a security incident that took place between December 31, 2023 and January 11, 2024. During this two week window unauthorized actors gained access to the credit union network. Communication Federal Credit Union which primarily serves residents in Oklahoma and Kansas confirmed that sensitive customer data was exposed.
The compromised information was extensive. It included names and birth dates alongside highly sensitive details like Social Security numbers and driver’s license numbers. Financial data such as bank account numbers and credit card information were also accessed putting victims at risk for identity theft and fraud. While CFCU denies any wrongdoing they agreed to the settlement to support their members and end the litigation.
Two Ways to Claim Your Money
The settlement structure is designed to be flexible offering two different tiers of compensation depending on how the breach affected you. The first option is for those who suffered specific financial harm. If you spent money dealing with fraud paying for credit monitoring or replacing government IDs you can file a claim for reimbursement. This path allows for payments up to $7,500 but requires valid proof like receipts or bank statements.
The second option is for individuals who may not have documented receipts but were still part of the breach. These class members can apply for a pro rata cash payment. This amount is estimated to be around $125 though the final figure will depend on the total number of valid claims submitted. This “no proof required” option ensures that everyone affected gets something.
Free Identity Protection for All Victims
Beyond the cash payments the settlement includes a crucial benefit for long term safety. Every eligible class member can sign up for three years of free identity theft protection and credit monitoring services. This is a valuable tool for anyone whose Social Security number may be circulating on the dark web.
This service package includes real time monitoring of your credit report and provides up to $1 million in identity protection insurance. Even if you do not plan to file a claim for the cash payment registering for this security service is highly recommended to protect your financial future.
Important Deadlines You Cannot Miss
Time is the most critical factor right now. The deadline to exclude yourself from the settlement passed on November 21, 2025. Now the only remaining action is to submit your claim form. You must file your request online or have it postmarked by December 22, 2025.
Once the claim period closes the court will review the settlement for final approval on January 7, 2026. If the court gives the green light and there are no appeals payments will be distributed shortly after. Missing the December deadline means you forfeit your right to any money from this specific lawsuit.
Summary of Settlement Benefits
- Total Fund: $2.9 million available for victims.
- Max Payout: Up to $7,500 for documented losses.
- Easy Cash: Estimated $125 for valid claims without receipts.
- Breach Dates: December 31, 2023 to January 11, 2024.
- Final Deadline: December 22, 2025.
- Who Qualifies: Notified customers of CFCU (Oklahoma/Kansas).
Compensation Tier Breakdown
The table below simplifies the differences between the two claim options available to you.
| Claim Option | Estimated Payout | Proof Required |
| Documented Loss | Up to $7,500 | Yes (Receipts, Statements) |
| Cash Payment | Approx. $125 | No |
| Identity Defense | Free Service (3 Years) | No |
