That really reeks of lazyness. The Tokens were something which we should have had from the start and if a few extra steps helps me keep my account more secure in an age where online theft is a common thing then I'd gladly pay for it. If you really have no idea what sparked the whole thing you should check this thread out..
http://www.bluegartr.com/threads/528...mised-Accounts
It had gotten to the point that people were getting their accounts ripped right out from under them and SE finally had to do something with the thousands of players that got their shit jacked.