US-Plattenlabel verklagen Verizon wegen mangelhafter Copyright-Schutzmaßnahmen
In einer neuen Klage haben mehr als 30 Plattenlabel den US-Netzbetreiber Verizon Because of alleged failure to take adequate measures against copyright infringers among its customers. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, alleges that Verizon has not done enough to address repeated copyright infringement by its customers, despite being aware of the issue.
The plaintiffs, including major record labels such as Universal, Capital, Atlantic, Elektra, Warner Music, and Sony Music, claim that they have been unable to determine the identities of the infringers due to Verizon’s failure to provide adequate information. They also allege that Verizon has not taken sufficient steps to terminate the internet access of repeat infringers, as required by law.
According to the complaint, the plaintiffs have been forced to spend significant resources on monitoring and enforcing their copyrights against Verizon’s customers, and they are seeking damages of up to $150,000 per infringement. The list of allegedly infringed songs is over 400 pages long.
The lawsuit highlights a growing frustration among content creators and owners with the lack of effective measures taken by internet service providers (ISPs) to address copyright infringement by their customers. While ISPs are not legally required to police their users’ online activities, many have voluntarily implemented measures to address the issue.
Verizon has been criticized for its handling of copyright infringement cases, with the plaintiffs alleging that the company has not taken sufficient steps to address the problem. In response to the lawsuit, Verizon has stated that it takes allegations of copyright infringement seriously and will defend itself vigorously against the claims.
The case is being watched closely by the music industry and other content creators, as it could set a precedent for future legal battles over copyright infringement. In a similar case last year, a US jury ordered internet provider Cox Communications to pay $1 billion in damages for failing to take adequate measures against copyright infringers among its customers.
The lawsuit highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing copyright infringement online, and the need for greater cooperation between content creators, ISPs, and other stakeholders to ensure that those who engage in such activities are held accountable. As the music industry continues to evolve and adapt to new technologies and business models, cases like this one will likely continue to play a significant role in shaping the legal landscape for years to come.