ATLANTA - June 30, 2025 – Today, the U.S. Supreme Court has granted Cox Communications’ petition to review the copyright case between Cox Communications and Sony, in which Sony is attempting to hold Cox liable for the alleged copyright infringement of its subscribers – an issue with profound implications for all Americans’ access to the internet.

“We are pleased the U.S. Supreme Court has decided to address these significant copyright issues that could jeopardize internet access for all Americans and fundamentally change how internet service providers manage their networks,” said Todd Smith, spokesperson for Cox Communications. “Today’s development supports our goal of protecting consumers, preserving open internet access, and ensuring that broadband remains a reliable resource for the communities we serve. We look forward to presenting our arguments to the Court.”

Background:

This news marks the latest chapter in a high-stakes legal battle between Cox and Sony over whether an internet provider is liable for its customers’ alleged copyright infringement. In 2018, Sony Corp. and other music industry groups sued Cox claiming that Cox should be held responsible – or secondarily liable – for its customers’ alleged copyright infringement. In 2019, a jury found Cox liable under two theories – vicarious infringement and contributory infringement, which Cox then appealed.

In February 2024, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the verdict holding that Cox was not vicariously liable for the actions of its consumers. But it ruled that Cox was liable for contributory infringement. This ruling meant that Cox, and by extension all internet providers, can be held responsible for the online activity of its subscribers. Now, after Cox filed a petition for review in August 2024 and the Solicitor General recommended that the Court accept Cox’s case, the Supreme Court has decided to hear this incredibly important and impactful case. 

Read more about why this case is a turning point in our previous Newsroom post.

About Cox Communications:
Cox Communications is committed to creating meaningful moments of human connection through technology. As the largest private broadband company in America, we own network infrastructure that reaches more than 30 states. Our fiber-powered wireline and wireless connections are available to more than 12 million homes and businesses and support advanced cloud and managed IT services nationwide. We’re the largest division of Cox Enterprises, a family-owned business founded in 1898 by Governor James M. Cox that is dedicated to empowering others to build a better future for the next generation.