What the FTC Alleged
The Federal Trade Commission sued Kochava, an Idaho-based data broker, in 2022, alleging it collected and sold precise geolocation data from hundreds of millions of mobile devices in a way that could reveal deeply sensitive movements — visits to reproductive-health clinics, domestic-violence and homeless shelters, addiction-recovery facilities and places of worship. Because such data can be tied back to individuals, the FTC argued the sales were an unfair practice that exposed people to real harm.
This is a landmark theory: treating the sale of unminimized location data as itself an unfair practice, not just a disclosure failure.
The Ruling and Settlement
After procedural back-and-forth, a federal court in Idaho ruled in 2024 that the FTC’s amended complaint could proceed — that the allegations, if proven, could show unfair conduct. Kochava ultimately settled, agreeing that it and a subsidiary would not sell, license or share sensitive location data without a consumer’s affirmative express consent tied to a service the consumer actually requested.
A consent-based restriction on sensitive location data is a significant marker for the whole data-broker industry.
What It Means for Consumers
The case is regulatory rather than a consumer class action, so there is no payout to claim. Its value to individuals is the precedent and the practical reminder that app location permissions feed a broker economy. Reviewing app location settings and limiting “always allow” permissions is the concrete defense.
Before You Act
Thinking About Filing a Claim?
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Kochava Lawsuit: The FTC Location-Data Case: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this case and your legal options.
What did Kochava do?
The FTC alleged Kochava sold precise location data that could reveal visits to sensitive places like health clinics and shelters, exposing people to harm.
Is the Kochava case a consumer class action?
No. It is an FTC enforcement action. Kochava settled by agreeing not to sell sensitive location data without affirmative consent. There is no consumer payout.
How can I limit location tracking?
Review each app's location permission, avoid 'always allow' where unnecessary, and use your phone's privacy controls to limit background location access.
Legal Disclaimer
This article is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Case status, eligibility criteria, and any amounts described are as reported at the date shown and may change. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your own situation.