Auto-Credit Thread

Just one question, if I uploaded some creator's model (Example, Romka's M16 and it's link here: Hitmodel.half-lifecreations.com) and put the creator name on it, I auto-credited the creator?

Just asking, thanks.

You have credited them, however most copyright laws will not be satisfied that way.

It is a common misconception that crediting someone allows you to use their assets. You need to get permission. Even if it isn't illegal in your country, it is impolite to use someone else's work without permission unless it is under a creative commons or open source license. Even if it is under a copyleft license, you still need to respect the terms of that license.

Depending on the laws of your country and their country, they could sue you for money, or even just get the work taken down. On this site, in order to comply with the DMCA of 2003, they might take down your mod or game if the creator of the asset complains you have violated their intellectual property rights.

Just get permission mate

EDIT: I am not a lawyer or attorney by the way.

Edited by: masternerdguy

Well as far as moddb is concerned, we are governed by international laws regarding, copyright and distribution, so.

If your sharing this members model and hes stated its ok to do so theres no issue.

If your using this model in your mod or game and you have EXPRESSED permission from all the artists involved in the creation of the asset (models can some times have multiple contributers, eg model by bob texture by sam.) and you have ALSO credited them for the use of their work, thats ok.

Where it becomes not ok, is when people use others work and credit them (but dont have, or have not asked for permission), this is not a nod of respect its a slap in the face, Credit is a thank you for being given permission to use others hard work, it doesnt grant you the licence to use and re distribute the asset.

I have a very old post here that covers it in more detail here.
Moddb.com

Some communities of modders are more inclined to share work with others (but just because they have in the past, don't assume its common practice), but as masternerdguy said, "Just get permission" to cover your ass.

I'm not a lawyer also, but copyright law is relevant to every developer and you should have a read up about licencing and distribution laws even if your a modder.
Its also really interesting and you can protect yourself from possible legal issues in the future.

En.wikipedia.org
En.wikipedia.org
En.wikipedia.org

Edited by: TKAzA

^ Thanks for that, you're really helpful.
I uploaded the model.