In this case it can be proven by 3 ways: 1. the description specifically states that component is a modder resource 2. the resource will have a date on it like a timestamp if unmodified that will be different than the rest of the mod files showing that indeed this content was used as is. 3. alternatively you could compare each files manually (nifskope, sounds, textures) between 2 or more mods that use same resource and if changes are very minimal it should still be usable. legally you have to change something enough to be considered new work. if you simply change the texture location is not really an asset modification but more like adapting/transforming the asset to your project. if you add a new texture, new sound or new pieces in the 3d mesh then is modified. These 3 points would be very strong indication that the asset was created before the mod and the asset was free to use as a modder resource Still need advice on this though