Linden Alt-Accounts

There's been a lot of discussion over the last couple of days about the Linden "alt-accounts" -- accounts we use that are not identified as Lindens, but which allow us to participate in Second Life as a regular resident.

Some of the concern seems to be rooted in not knowing what our policies are regarding those accounts, and whether Lindens have an unfair advantage. Following is a list of our policies for employees and contractors when participating in Second Life in unidentified, non-Linden accounts:

- you cannot transfer L$ into your alt account
- you will not be eligible for dwell bonuses or developer incentive awards
- you cannot trade L$ on any 3rd party exchange
- you cannot hold office in any SL groups (although it's fine for you to be a member)
- you should not divulge any privileged information to fellow group members, such as feature development plans, when new land is going up for auction, marketing or promotional plans
- you should not participate in any contests
- you may not purchase land in any auctions, although you may purchase land from other players

Given the level of concern expressed here, we're reviewing these policies. As some of you have noted, we're all very involved in SL here at Linden Lab, and it's great fun to be able to kick back and just explore the world with a little different perspective. On the other hand, we'd hate for people to feel like they're being taken advantage of in any way.

You'll hear more from us on this subject in the next few days, but I did want to make sure you see what our policies are and know that we hear you.