it usually does say to keep the link in place, and if it doesn't so what IMO. If i install something and it shows that, i check to see if i can disable it in the ACP and if not i decide to either live with it or uninstall the product...
Is it ethical to not say that in the release you have a link in there? idk, maybe not 100% but i don't think it's anything to be upset about.
most of the time it's something you deal with, vB ad managment for example. I LOVED that mod, it was really great, and =Redtyger= or whoever had a link back in there, i left it, the link was worth it.
ETA: im sure this thread was a offshoot of
THIS thread, idk if the staff will see this as honest discussion or you not following or listening to them....I think you are on a crusade that really isnt worth the effort...