Apple hit with a new funder-backed class action

London-based Hereford Litigation is backing a new class action claim filed in the Netherlands against Apple for allegedly abusing its monopoly power by making consumers overpay for apps and in-app purchases for more than a decade.

The claim is being brought by the Consumer Competition Claims Foundation, an Amsterdam-based non-profit organisation that takes action on behalf of European consumers against infringements of competition law, fraudulent or misleading acts, unfair commercial practices and violations of consumer law. The Foundation is arguing that the damages Dutch and European consumers have suffered is at least €2.7 billion and potentially up to €4.7 billion, excluding statutory interest and future damages.

International law firm Scott+Scott has been engaged to bring the claim. The Brattle Group, among others, have been engaged to calculate the damage suffered by consumers.

Hereford will be entitled to compensation ranging from 10% to 24% of the total damages awarded.