Ashlee Johnson has filed a class action complaint against Synel Americas, Inc., an Arizona-based corporation, alleging violations of the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA). The complaint was lodged in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on May 20, 2024. Johnson claims that Synel unlawfully collected, stored, and used biometric data without obtaining informed written consent or providing a publicly available retention schedule.
According to the complaint, Johnson and other similarly situated individuals were required to scan their fingerprints using Synel's biometric devices as part of their employment. These devices were used to track employee time and attendance. Johnson began working for Speedway LLC in Summit, Illinois, in October 2023 and was mandated to use her fingerprint daily for clocking in and out. She alleges that she never provided written consent for the collection or storage of her biometric data by Synel.
The plaintiff asserts that Synel's actions are in direct violation of BIPA’s provisions. Specifically, BIPA mandates that private entities must inform individuals in writing about the collection and storage of biometric data, disclose the purpose and duration for which such data will be used, obtain written consent from individuals before collecting their biometric information, and publish a publicly available retention schedule detailing when the data will be destroyed. The complaint states that Synel failed to adhere to these requirements.
Johnson's legal team argues that Synel’s practices expose employees to significant privacy risks since biometric identifiers like fingerprints are unique and permanent. Unlike social security numbers or credit card information, which can be changed if compromised, once biometric data is exposed, individuals have no recourse to prevent identity theft or unauthorized tracking.
The lawsuit seeks several forms of relief: declaratory judgment affirming that Synel violated BIPA; injunctive relief compelling Synel to comply with BIPA’s requirements; statutory damages amounting to $5,000 for each intentional or reckless violation or $1,000 for each negligent violation; and reasonable attorney’s fees and litigation costs.
Represented by Jordan Richards PLLC from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Ashlee Johnson demands a jury trial on all issues so triable on behalf of herself and all others similarly situated. The case is being overseen by Judge [Name] under Case ID 1:24-cv-04136.