I have been building and uploading my creations since TS1. When people started re-uploading my creations, with or without changes, I did feel (at first) like I was being ripped off. However, after thoroughly reading the rules, I had to get it through my head that everything done and uploaded to the Gallery belongs exclusively to EA. Once I accepted this fact, I realized that when I upload a creation, I relinquish any control over what happens to it... that is a fact! Only EA can decide what will happen with it. EA is very aware of this and has through the years implemented ways to combat “stealing” to the best of their ability. Even though they have added the name of the original creator before the description, I believe many people over look it when they download because it is not very prominent. But, just like in the real world, people will find ways around established safe guards to put themselves into the spotlight at other people’s expense. If someone is going to upload something created by someone else, with or without changes, they should include something in the description thanking the original creator for the time and work spent on it so as to give credit where credit is due. Then, give a short description as to what changes they made to it before uploading it back to the Gallery. If a person is uploading it for personal safe keeping, why not state that in the description so the original creator understands why they re-uploaded it to the Gallery.
Taking a little time to type something in the description about why you are uploading someone else’s creation would sure help save a lot of people disappointment and headaches. I am not going to hold my breath on this one though, because, unfortunately, we have lazy people who would not take the time to do this. It’s a matter of courtesy and respect.
