Supreme Court leans toward internet service providers in copyright battle
9 days ago
- #Copyright Infringement
- #Supreme Court
- #Internet Service Providers
- The Supreme Court appears sympathetic to an internet service provider (ISP) in a copyright battle with the music industry.
- The case involves peer-to-peer file-sharing protocols like BitTorrent, used for downloading pirated music.
- Record labels are trying to hold ISPs liable for copyright infringement by not cutting off users who download bootlegged music.
- Justices seem concerned about the practical implications, such as disconnecting entire group accounts or university campuses.
- Cox Communications warns that holding ISPs liable could lead to mass internet disconnections based on accusations.
- Justice Samuel Alito questions the workability of the music industry's position.
- Justice Amy Coney Barrett raises concerns about ISPs escaping liability even in cases like child trafficking.
- Sony Music argues Cox enabled 'habitual offenders' and prioritized profits over copyright enforcement.
- Justice Neil Gorsuch suggests a narrow ruling favoring Cox and sending the case back to the lower court.
- The Supreme Court has previously avoided broad rulings that could disrupt the internet.
- The case has drawn attention from major tech companies like Google and X, who side with ISPs.
- X warns that the ruling could harm the tech industry, especially AI platforms facing copyright lawsuits.
- The Supreme Court rejected a similar copyright case involving VCRs over 40 years ago, ruling in favor of Sony.