I had a mission come up about retrieving some rare artwork that was jettisoned during a pirate attack. This activity is considered illegal supposedly since it has been issued by criminals* and they want to fence the artworks. We should have the option of instead returning them to authorities for a higher rep, less credits reward.
Authorities should also be issuing contracts for legitimate recovery of cargo. In these cases, perhaps when you enter a USS, you will likely find some scavenging pirates in addition to just the cargo. If you're not quick enough, they might make off with it.
Also, if you happen to come across some lost cargo, with the exception of some things like slaves, why should you be penalized for carrying it if your intention is to return it to the authorities? Of course if that was removed there would be no smuggling mechanic, just free cash. However, if you were able to declare goods before arriving at a station, you would not be considered a criminal when you are scanned. If you do declare the goods and then sell them on the black market, you would then be fined for violating your declaration.
*Not sure why that's visible on a public bulletin board. With the exception of smaller stations, perhaps illegal contracts should instead be displayed under contacts alongside the black market.
Authorities should also be issuing contracts for legitimate recovery of cargo. In these cases, perhaps when you enter a USS, you will likely find some scavenging pirates in addition to just the cargo. If you're not quick enough, they might make off with it.
Also, if you happen to come across some lost cargo, with the exception of some things like slaves, why should you be penalized for carrying it if your intention is to return it to the authorities? Of course if that was removed there would be no smuggling mechanic, just free cash. However, if you were able to declare goods before arriving at a station, you would not be considered a criminal when you are scanned. If you do declare the goods and then sell them on the black market, you would then be fined for violating your declaration.
*Not sure why that's visible on a public bulletin board. With the exception of smaller stations, perhaps illegal contracts should instead be displayed under contacts alongside the black market.
