That sucks... I noticed many people doing basically the same thing in the early days. They didn't steal your content or anything, but they did some compilation posts where they listed 5-10 "awesome articles". They kept all of the rewards for themselves though, and it was totally legit and acceptable as they "promoted" other users. Which ultimately could help them to get more followers etc.

However, both you and me know, that most people doesn't even read the articles on here... So it was probably slim to none chance that any of the featured authors got any recognition for it.

So these authors who made "featured posts" could simply check their feed, pick 5 articles, include them in a post and publish. Took them like 15 minutes, tops. And they kept the rewards for themselves.

A superb, easy solution to rake in a ton of rewards.