Report: Damage claims may be filed against LinkedIn for unwanted email

A class-action lawsuit has been filed in San Jose, California against social network LinkedIn to claim damages for the sending of unsolicited emails containing the members’ photograph and information. Broadcaster BNR reported that the claims go against the alleged improper use of the site's “Add Connections” service to grow its member base. Law firm Gilardi and Co. announced that the court’s decision was that everyone who fits the criteria would receive a settlement of up to $1,500, including the Dutch. Invitations were sent out from the LinkedIn site to the recently synced email contacts which included the members’ profile picture and some of their information. If the recipient did not respond within a certain time, two reminder emails were sent. This was done without the members consent to advertise their identity. LinkedIn has agreed to establish a compensation fund for the damages caused, estimated to pay around $13 million. The company has also promised to reduce the number of mails it sends out to users.