eBay to Pay $56 Million Settlement Over Harassment Case Involving Former Executives
eBay has agreed to pay a total of $55.7 million in a settlement with David and Ina Steiner, who were victims of harassment by former eBay employees. The case stemmed from an elaborate cyber-stalking campaign orchestrated as retaliation for the couple's critical coverage of eBay through their newsletter EcommerceBytes. As part of the resolution, eBay will pay $46.15 million directly to the Steiners and contribute $6 million in charitable donations. The harassment included sending cockroaches, fly larvae, and a bloody Halloween pig mask to the couple’s home, as well as surveillance attempts by former employees traveling from California to Massachusetts. Seven ex-employees had previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme, with sentences up to 57 months. eBay was also criminally charged earlier this year and fined $3 million. Former CEO Devin Wenig is not facing criminal charges but will pay $2 million directly to the Steiners under a separate agreement. Other former executives involved include Steve Wymer (chief communications officer) and Wendy Jones, who have agreed to personal payments as part of their settlements.
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Topics: cyber-stalking eBay harassment settlement