Major Labels vs ISPs: Altice USA Backs Cox's Supreme Court Challenge Over User Piracy

Major Labels vs ISPs: Altice USA Backs Cox's Supreme Court Challenge Over User Piracy

By Marcus Bennett

December 16, 2024 at 02:32 AM

Several major parties have filed amicus briefs supporting Cox Communications' Supreme Court petition in its ongoing copyright battle with Sony and other major music labels. The case could have significant implications for internet access across the United States.

Altice logo over cityscape

Altice logo over cityscape

The case originated in 2018 when Sony Corp. and other music industry groups sued Cox Communications for copyright infringement committed by its users through online piracy. The labels argue that ISPs should be held liable for their users' piracy activities.

Key supporters of Cox's petition include:

  • Altice USA (which recently settled its own copyright case with BMG)
  • Frontier Communications
  • Lumen Technologies
  • Verizon
  • Professor Alfred C. Yen

Cox's main argument centers on the practical implications of the Court's decision. The ISP contends that avoiding liability would require them to terminate internet service for entire establishments - including households, coffee shops, hospitals, and universities - based solely on allegations of copyright infringement by unidentified users.

While the Court upheld the jury verdict finding Cox liable for secondary copyright infringement, it rejected a $1 billion damage award to the labels and ordered a new trial to determine appropriate damages.

Altice Building against blue sky

Altice Building against blue sky

This case represents a critical juncture in determining ISP liability for user copyright infringement and could significantly impact how internet service is provided across America.

Altice office building, six stories high

Altice office building, six stories high

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