Story perspectives

Supreme Court Rules Cox Not Liable for Piracy

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

On March 25, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Cox Communications cannot be liable for subscriber copyright infringement.
Justice Clarence Thomas said simply providing internet service, even with knowledge of piracy, does not establish liability.
The ruling overturns a $1 billion jury verdict accusing Cox of ignoring infringement notices.
The Court said liability requires intent to facilitate infringement, which Cox did not demonstrate, limiting ISP accountability.

History

Historical Context

The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), enacted in 1998, established crucial copyright protections in the digital realm, enabling copyright holders to issue takedown notices. In 2026, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that knowledge of piracy does not imply liability for Internet Service Providers like Cox Communications, overturning a $1 billion verdict and reshaping future copyright enforcement and ISP responsibilities.

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Story summary

On March 25, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled Cox Communications cannot be liable for subscriber copyright infringement.
Justice Clarence Thomas said simply providing internet service, even with knowledge of piracy, does not establish liability.
The ruling overturns a $1 billion jury verdict accusing Cox of ignoring infringement notices.
The Court said liability requires intent to facilitate infringement, which Cox did not demonstrate, limiting ISP accountability.

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