Ariana Grande Granted Expedited Subpoenas to Identify Hackers

Pop star Ariana Grande has received court approval to expedite the process of identifying anonymous hackers she accuses of stealing unreleased music and other content. A Los Angeles judge granted her request for expedited discovery, allowing her legal team to subpoena information necessary to unmask the individuals responsible.

Grande's legal team argued that immediate action was crucial to prevent further dissemination and sale of her stolen content. The hackers allegedly infiltrated the devices of individuals close to the singer, stealing unreleased music, behind-the-scenes footage, and music videos, which were then reportedly sold online. The lawsuit, filed on July 27, targets a group of unnamed "John Does" for alleged phishing scams and hacking schemes.

Judge Mark H. Epstein noted in his ruling that there was "good cause" for the expedited process, stating it made little sense to delay when there was no one to formally notify. Grande's lawsuit outlines a pattern of illegal behavior, including invasion of privacy, violation of California's Comprehensive Data Access and Fraud Act, and civil theft. Her team seeks the return of her stolen items and an injunction against future actions.

According to the complaint, 45 unreleased songs belonging to Grande were hacked, stolen, and leaked in 2023 alone, adding to hundreds of similar leaks since her music debut in 2011. Grande is demanding a jury trial, and the case is scheduled for a status hearing on January 25.

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Given that there is no one to whom notice can be given anyway, it makes little sense to wait the 16 days. And on the merits of the motion, good cause is shown.