Cox Communications v. Sony Music Entertainment

The case asks whether an internet provider can be liable for users' copyright infringement because it knew about infringement and did not cut off their internet access. The Court released a decision on March 25, 2026, but the available record does not state the result or reasoning.

Justice Thomas wrote the 9–0 opinion, joined by Chief Justice Roberts and Justices Jackson, Alito, Kagan, Barrett, Kavanaugh, and Gorsuch; Justice Sotomayor concurred.

Majority

Thomas

Sotomayor

Jackson

Roberts

Alito

Kagan

Barrett

Kavanaugh

Gorsuch

The case could affect internet providers, music companies, and subscribers accused of sharing copyrighted works. For example, it could shape when a provider must respond to infringement notices about a customer's account.

Lower courts and affected parties will review the Court's opinion and apply its rule in future copyright cases. Cox, music companies, and other internet providers may assess whether their policies need changes.

The Court released a decision on March 25, 2026. The available record does not provide the outcome or the Court's reasoning.

Internet providers, copyright owners, and subscribers may be affected. The case concerns provider responsibility for users' alleged copyright infringement.

Lower courts and parties will study the opinion and apply its rule. Internet providers and copyright owners may review their enforcement practices.