Supreme Court Set to Redefine Internet Provider Copyright Liability

On June 30, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to take up a landmark case that could change how copyright law applies to internet service providers (ISPs). The case involves Cox Communications and questions when an ISP can be held responsible if its users commit copyright infringement online. This is a big deal because the internet is the main platform for sharing and consuming digital content today.

The key question is: how much responsibility do platforms have for copyright violations their users commit? Traditionally, copyright owners have gone after the direct infringers—the people actually sharing or copying content illegally. But as ISPs and other online platforms play a bigger role in enabling access to content, courts have struggled with whether those companies should also be held liable if they know infringement is happening but don’t stop it.

This concept is called contributory liability. It means that someone who doesn’t directly infringe but helps or encourages another person to do so may be legally responsible. But courts have been inconsistent in how they apply this to ISPs. Some providers see themselves as neutral services that simply provide internet access without controlling user behavior. Copyright holders argue that platforms like Cox foster massive infringement and even profit by keeping repeat infringers as customers.

The Supreme Court’s decision will clarify this legal standard in the digital age. It could affect how platforms monitor and manage user activity and, more broadly, shape how content is created, shared, and monetized online.

One challenge is striking the right balance between defending creators’ rights and keeping the internet open and innovative. Too much liability could force platforms to over-police their users, limiting free expression and legitimate activity. On the other hand, too little enforcement leaves creators vulnerable to rampant piracy that devalues their work.

So, how will this ruling impact businesses and creators? If contributory liability is expanded, platforms might need to invest heavily in more advanced monitoring systems and stricter enforcement policies, which could be costly and complicated, especially for smaller providers. At the same time, content creators may gain more tools to protect their work. If the Court decides otherwise, it could maintain the current balance but leave copyright owners frustrated by ongoing infringement.

For anyone making, sharing, or relying on copyrighted content, this is an important moment to revisit your copyright strategies. Having solid legal guidance and monitoring is essential to protect your creative work and stay ahead of changes in the law.

If you’re worried about copyright infringement or need support protecting and enforcing your intellectual property in this rapidly changing environment, our firm can help. We offer tailored legal advice and services designed to safeguard your rights and respond effectively to infringement.

Click the link below to see how we can support you as the digital copyright landscape continues to evolve.