DPS Parser - ToS Violation?

[choke]

I originally posed this question elsewhere on the forums but it was closed because I should be asking elsewhere on the forums. I hope this is the right place to ask...



There is a DPS parser that can be found online (no I won't name it/them) which hooks the FFXIV process to access the combat logs and parse your dps. Is it a violation of the TOS to use this/these tool(s)?

[bebop_bo]

why should it, its simply a dps meter, it doesnt alter the games files in anyway..only pulls from them so imo nope it aint against TOS.

Also rumour has it SE will be letting 3rd partys create mods for the UI in the future which atm cant be done as the UI elements are hard coded.

[AkikoPanda1]

I read somewhere that a DPS parser IS against ToS because the terms explicitly state that mining or manipulation of game data is forbidden. (I don't remember the exact wording, though.)

[Elendil_Voronda]

I read somewhere that a DPS parser IS against ToS because the terms explicitly state that mining or manipulation of game data is forbidden. (I don't remember the exact wording, though.)

A parser does not data mine game files nor modifies them, it just "Parses" (hence the name) the text log files that are stored on your "my games" folder, this are text files that store everything that appears on your logs. So every time yo do a weapon skill an it appear on your log window, will also be read by the parser and that´s how it works.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parsing

[Ebon_Drake]

The question is, do you really trust a third party program not to covertly collect data about you for it's creators benefits? even so far as log in data and passwords?

I do not, and I'll not use any third party software for that specific reason.

[choke]

The question is, do you really trust a third party program not to covertly collect data about you for it's creators benefits? even so far as log in data and passwords?

I do not, and I'll not use any third party software for that specific reason.

No, the question is "Are these tools allowed, or not". The tool that shall remain nameless (for now) comes from a VERY reputable website in the mmo community. In fact, if you've played any mmo in the last 5 years, you've probably used some of their services. If they were involved stealing login usernames and passwords, it would mean the end of their legitimate business.

I'm still really hoping SE can shed some light on this.

[acidmax]

I don´t know whats the problem of saying the app's name...

Its FFXIV-APP made by ZAM Network .

I would like an official answer from SE too.

[CianaIezuborn]

http://support.na.square-enix.com/ru...1&tag=users_en

2.5 Data Mining. You may not intercept, mine or otherwise collect information from the Game using unauthorized third party software.

So by the reading of that, yes it's in breach of ToS. As is any non-endorsed fansite that has an item database, as is entering item information into a spreadsheet for personal use, as is emailing a friend the stats on that item you just got. Streaming to twitch or recording to YouTube would also be a breach unless they've officially endorsed either services.

Sounds ridiculous? It is, it's overly general by design, as are most ToS. As a result you will probably not receive an answer on this.

What most all ToS can be broken down to is this:
1. We can stop your service at any time for any reason we choose without giving you a refund for past services received and possibly future services purchased.
2. If you take us to court, our ToS will likely fall apart and you will receive a full to partial refund that which will most definitely be less than your cost of litigation.
3. Even if you receive a refund, you will no longer be receiving services from us.

[WildSnipe]

http://support.na.square-enix.com/ru...1&tag=users_en

So by the reading of that, yes it's in breach of ToS.

Simply not true. If you're not collecting the data from the .exe files, RAM, network traffic, or anywhere else that the game is running, then you're not collecting the information from THE GAME. Parsing a log file is perfectly legal. It's a text document stored on your drive. It's not data mining. That's like saying it's illegal to take pictures of your game even though they built in a hot key for that very purpose.

[Orwellian]

http://support.na.square-enix.com/ru...1&tag=users_en


What most all ToS can be broken down to is this:
1. We can stop your service at any time for any reason we choose without giving you a refund for past services received and possibly future services purchased.
2. If you take us to court, our ToS will likely fall apart and you will receive a full to partial refund that which will most definitely be less than your cost of litigation.
3. Even if you receive a refund, you will no longer be receiving services from us.

This gentleperson understands the deep mysteries of the world. I would also add "written, and signed contracts" to that category. Judges roll their eyes and invalidate consumer contracts somewhat regularly due to being unreasonable, confusing, or just plain stupid. See the case of the guy who took ATT to small claims over the unlimited data issue.