I would take it as a compliment if my work was pinned (not likely) but I would also want the person to give credit where credit is due. Until I joined here I had no idea the background/history of quilt patterns was so carefully tracked. It makes sense, I just never thought about it. There is a lot of effort involved in creating new patterns.
I think most people are pretty honest and have good intentions. It's only a few that spoil it for the rest. I don't say or post anything on the internet that I wouldn't say in front of a room full of people. Forums are here for people to share their ideas with everyone that's interested, it's not a private conversation.
My 2 cents,
Rodney