US Fifth Circuit Rules ISP Grande Liable for Copyright Infringement, Limits Damages

The US Fifth Circuit Court has ruled that Internet Service Provider (ISP) Grande is liable for contributory copyright infringement for failing to terminate users accused of piracy. The court's decision mandates that the ISP must terminate such users. However, the Fifth Circuit has limited statutory damages to 'per album' rather than 'per song,' creating a significant split among circuit courts. This ruling marks another victory for record labels in their ongoing battle against online piracy.