Copying Posts and Comments is Illegal

And wrong. It's called plagarism, and we are seeing more and more of it on Steemit.

What is plagarism? Plagarism is the "wrongful appropriation" and "stealing and publication" of another author's "language, thoughts, ideas, or expressions" and the representation of them as one's own original work. ~ Wikipedia

When you copy someone's post or images and publish it to your page, even if you cite the source you are still stealing. Unless the original author gave you permission to use it, and even if that is so you should only copy a little tiny bit of it to place amongst your own original creation.

When you create your Steemit articles, you work very hard. Typing takes time. Research takes time. As does formatting, finding legal images to upload, etc.

When you steal another author's hard work, you will be looked down upon. You will only gain the respect of the community by creating original posts. And when @steemcleaners, @cheetah, or a fellow author finds the articles you posted are copied and not yours, you will be flagged or banned.

And you could be sued by the original creator.

It can be deemed a criminal offense, and you could face a prison sentence.

Do the right, and legal, thing and only post articles, images and videos that are yours.

Do not copy others work!

Steemit is a wonderful and supportive community. If you need help thinking of things to write about, ask! Most anyone here will be willing to help you come up with a few ideas.

If you need help editing or formatting your posts @blue-pencil is here for you.

Creating your own articles is rewarding. I understand the frustration when you first get here, you don't have many followers and you do not receive many rewards. At first! But, by creating original content and being a part of the community by commenting and upvoting, you will grow! I grew organically, with zero investment. It can be done, and will be done if you post original work and comment thoughtfully daily. With a little patience and creativity you will grow.

Don't risk it by copying other Steemians posts! Be a productive member of the community and watch your rewards roll in :)

STEEM on my friends, and may the cryptos be ever in your favor :)

Royalty and attribution free images via Creative Commons