settlement agreement Archives

Tech Optimizer

December 7, 2025

FTC sends $15.3 million in refunds to Avast antivirus customers

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is distributing million to 103,152 consumers affected by misleading marketing practices related to Avast's antivirus software. This distribution began on December 2, 2025, as part of a settlement finalized in June 2024, which addressed allegations that Avast collected, stored, and sold users' browsing information without proper notice or consent. Consumers can receive payments via checks, PayPal, or Zelle, with specific timeframes for cashing or redeeming funds. Rust Consulting, Inc. is the refund administrator, and individuals are advised not to pay any fees or provide account information to file claims. The settlement also imposes restrictions on Avast, including a permanent ban on selling web browsing data for advertising and a requirement to obtain clear consent from users for any future data sales.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

Here’s a look at how Android 17 will make alternative app stores easier to use

Google will introduce support for "Registered App Stores" with the upcoming Android 17 release as part of a settlement with Epic Games. Certified third-party app stores will have a streamlined installation process featuring a "single store install screen" that provides users with clear information about the store and necessary permissions. OEMs are required to simplify the installation process for these app stores, prohibiting additional restrictions on sideloading. The Epic Games Store will not be available on the Google Play Store, although Epic can list individual games like Fortnite. The settlement ends hostilities between Epic and Google, with both agreeing to refrain from disparaging each other and Epic acknowledging Google's practices as procompetitive while still advocating for broader changes in the mobile ecosystem.