While there maybe subtleties in "public access by humans" over "automated scraping" - these belong in the "business dispute" side of the fence. Using the CFAA is by definition - playing hardball - it includes Criminal Penalties in some cases.
What really amuses me is that in the Tweet highlighted, Craig is indeed implying that it is his money going to the EFF - who Opposed him in the legal case that lead to the money. So he should be called out for egregious bullying - using the threat of Criminal Sanction to get his way.
If an HN-friendly business (whatever that is) pulled the same move it would also be equally worthy of opprobrium.
What really amuses me is that in the Tweet highlighted, Craig is indeed implying that it is his money going to the EFF - who Opposed him in the legal case that lead to the money. So he should be called out for egregious bullying - using the threat of Criminal Sanction to get his way.
If an HN-friendly business (whatever that is) pulled the same move it would also be equally worthy of opprobrium.