Berlusconis’ MFE Sues Perplexity for AI Copyright Abuse (1)

Two media companies owned by the Berlusconi family have sued Perplexity AI Inc. in Rome, accusing the US startup of using their copyrighted films and TV programs without permission to train its artificial-intelligence systems.

RTI and Medusa Film, part of MFE-MediaForEurope NV, allege that Perplexity used large volumes of their audiovisual works in ways that breach their intellectual property rights, according to a statement on Wednesday.

The case, filed in Rome’s civil court, is Italy’s first targeting alleged copyright violations linked to AI training, the companies said in the statement.

“We respect intellectual property and have always operated ...