Licensing, Footer Protection and the GPL

[sol_bot]

I'm sort of jumping into a very controversial topic for my first post, but here goes.

1. From what I have read, the GPL allows the developer to release the software under multiple licenses at once. (Apparently only the original developer has this right)
   So why not sell non-GPL versions of the software that have the footer removed or modified as the purchaser wishes.

2. The FAQ seems to be the only place that mentions you are not allowed to remove the footer. Wouldn't this be better in a License file (Like the GPL Copying file).
    I was using the software for about 2 hours before I even noticed it.

3. After I HAD noticed it my curiosity was aroused...
   Why was it so difficult for people to remove it?
   So I had a look at the code. (I'm also a developer). I must say you did a nice job of protecting it.
   The solution is simple, effective and well obscured.
   (Yes I did find out how you did it. I also may use something similar on some of my projects from now on too.)

Finally, before anyone asks. I will NOT  respond to any requests on how they did it or how to remove it.
I am a developer myself and know the feeling of having someone take your work and pass it off as their own.

Over all, this is one of the best Image Gallery programs I have tested.
Keep up the good work.

[Joachim Müller]

as you suggested, only the original developer could possibly allow the release of coppermine under another license than GNU GPL. As the original developer Gregory Demar is "missing" and can't be contacted, there's nobody who could do this, so coppermine will remain under GNU GPL no matter what.
Thanks for respecting the "Powered by Coppermine" tag and keeping the secret.

Joachim