Tumblr, preeminent internet fount of animated GIFs, fleeting memes, and copyright infringement, has one terrific thing going for it: the only human-friendly, genuinely funny terms of service we’ve ever encountered on the internet.
Tumblr “bs in the city” decided to actually read the TOS — we’re not sure why — but we’re glad they did. What’s lurking in there? BetaBeat highlighted some nice nuggets:
“Don’t post private photos of your ex’s junk (no matter how attractive).”
“If you’re younger than 13, don’t use Tumblr. Ask your parents for an Xbox or try books.”
“If you want to ridicule or parody a public figure (and who doesn’t?) don’t try to trick readers into think you are actually that public figure.”
But it’s not just funny — it’s actually-what? — helpful. For people:
Something else worth noting: Countless Tumblr blogs have gone on to spawn books, films, albums, brands and more. We’re thrilled to offer our support as a platform for our creators and we’d never claim to be entitled to royalties or reimbursement for the success of what you’ve created. It’s your work, and we’re proud to be a part (however small) of what you accomplish.
One thing you should consider before posting: When you make something publicly available on the Internet, it becomes practically impossible to take down all copies of it.
Terms of service that actually serve us instead of confusing us into submission? More please. Now Tumbl some GIFs of dogs that look like former US Secretaries of Defense! [bs in the city via BetaBeat]