JD Supra

Supreme Court: ISPs not liable for user copyright infringement without intent

The Supreme Court ruled that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are not liable for user copyright infringement solely based on knowledge of the infringement. The decision in Cox Communications Inc. v. Sony Music Entertainment clarifies that intent to encourage infringement or providing a service primarily for infringing uses is required for ISP liability. This ruling may impact how platforms are expected to enforce terms of service against infringing users.

Court Grants Summary Judgment, Finds No Copyright Infringement

The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York granted summary judgment to defendants in Freeman v. Deebs-Elkenaney, finding no copyright infringement. The court determined that similarities between the plaintiff's unpublished drafts and the defendants' bestselling novel series were limited to unprotectable tropes common to the genre.

FTC Warns Auto Dealers on Vehicle Price Advertising

The FTC sent warning letters to 97 auto dealership groups regarding deceptive vehicle price advertising practices. The agency stated that advertised prices must reflect the total cost to consumers, excluding only government charges, to comply with Section 5 of the FTC Act.

Indiana Prohibits Virtual Currency Kiosks

Indiana Governor Mike Braun signed House Bill 1116 into law, prohibiting the operation of virtual currency kiosks in the state. Violations are now considered deceptive acts actionable under the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act, with potential liability for property owners who knowingly permit kiosk operations. The law is effective immediately.

Digital Platform Services Face Consumer Law Scrutiny

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is increasing scrutiny on digital platform services regarding consumer law, focusing on design choices and user journeys rather than just marketing. In-house counsel should address potential unconscionable conduct and misleading practices arising from platform design.

UK Pensions Law Digest: Pension Schemes Bill, IHT, PPF, TPR Updates

This UK pensions law digest summarizes recent developments including House of Lords amendments to the Pension Schemes Bill, updates on Inheritance Tax legislation, Pension Protection Fund levy rules for 2026/27, and new guidance from the Pensions Regulator. It also covers consultations on simplified pension advice and reporting standards.

Employer Contributions to Section 530A Trump Accounts

The IRS has provided guidance on employer contributions to new Section 530A Trump Accounts, established by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025. Employers can contribute up to $2,500 annually per employee or dependent, which is excluded from taxable earnings. Further guidance on non-discrimination rules is anticipated.

Tax Incentives Review for Renewable Energy Sector Changes in Brazil

Mayer Brown has released an analysis of Brazil's Complementary Law No. 224/2025, which revises tax incentives for the renewable energy sector. The new law presents challenges for investors and developers, impacting project viability and financial structuring.

European Cybersecurity M&A Climbs Amid Accelerating AI-Driven Attacks

European cybersecurity M&A is projected to increase due to a rise in AI-driven attacks and new EU regulations like NIS2 and the Cyber Resilience Act. The European cybersecurity market is expected to grow significantly, driven by increased investment and regulatory mandates for enhanced cyber defenses.

EU Legal Professional Privilege Challenged by AI Confidentiality Risks

This article discusses how the adoption of Generative AI tools poses new challenges to legal professional privilege (LPP) under EU law. It highlights concerns that using AI may inadvertently undermine LPP protections, potentially exposing communications to public authorities. The guidance aims to identify key challenges and offer practical advice for safeguarding LPP.