July 16th, 2024

Record labels sue Verizon for not disconnecting pirates' Internet service

Major record labels sue Verizon for $2.6 billion, accusing the ISP of profiting from copyright infringement by not disconnecting music pirates. Verizon faces criticism for hindering infringement reports. Verizon has not responded.

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Record labels sue Verizon for not disconnecting pirates' Internet service

Major record labels have filed a lawsuit against Verizon, accusing the Internet service provider of violating copyright law by allowing customers accused of music piracy to continue using their services. The labels claim Verizon ignored over 340,000 copyright infringement notices sent since early 2020, identifying specific subscribers engaged in illegal file-sharing activities. The lawsuit alleges Verizon knowingly profited from copyright infringement by not disconnecting repeat infringers, potentially facing damages of over $2.6 billion. This legal action is part of a broader trend where record labels and movie studios target ISPs for facilitating piracy. In a separate case involving Cox Communications, a $1 billion jury verdict was overturned, highlighting the complexities of holding ISPs accountable for copyright infringement. The lawsuit against Verizon also criticizes the company for allegedly making it difficult for copyright owners to report infringement, citing onerous conditions and limitations on complaint channels. Verizon has not yet responded to the allegations.

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