Southern Illinois Healthcare Enterprises Settles Website Tracking Lawsuit
A settlement has been agreed to resolve litigation involving HIPAA-covered entities Southern Illinois Healthcare Enterprises, Southern Illinois Hospital Services, and Southern Illinois Medical Services regarding the use of website tracking technologies without user knowledge or consent.
Case Background and Allegations
The lawsuit, filed by John Doe on behalf of similarly situated individuals, alleged that the defendants disclosed personally identifiable information (PII) to third parties through tracking tools deployed on their websites. The case was initially filed in Williamson County Circuit Court, Illinois.
The complaint asserted that information was transmitted to Meta, also known as Facebook, without the knowledge or permission of website visitors. Claims included negligence, invasion of privacy, breach of implied contract, unjust enrichment, breach of fiduciary duty, and violations of the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Practices Act.
Court Proceedings and Amended Complaint
The defendants removed the case to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois and filed a motion to dismiss. The motion resulted in partial dismissal and the filing of an amended complaint.
The amended complaint included expanded claims. These claims included negligence, negligence per se, invasion of privacy, breach of implied contract, breach of express contract, breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, breach of bailment, conversion, trespass to chattel, violation of the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, and the Illinois Eavesdropping Statute.
The defendants filed a motion to dismiss the amended complaint. The court denied that motion.
Settlement Terms and Defendant Position
The defendants denied and continue to deny any wrongdoing or liability. A settlement agreement was reached to avoid the cost of extended litigation and the risks associated with trial proceedings.
Under the terms of the settlement, class members are eligible to receive a one-year membership to the CyEx Privacy Shield Pro service. Class members are also eligible for a one-time cash payment of $17.50.
Key Deadlines and Hearing Schedule
The deadline for objections, exclusions, and claims submission is June 15, 2026. The schedule of the fairness hearing is August 24, 2026.