Thanks KageTokage. I think it could still work with multiple bots, but it would require more work.

Another suggestions: Start a temporary FC called "No Marketboard" with other legit sellers on your server. Advertise your FC in all Markets with a note like "We are legitimate players who love FFXIV and are protesting the prevalence of bots on the marketboard. We'll sell items you need until SE fixes this problem." (I haven't checked the word limit)
The goal is not to make this a long-term solution, but to raise awareness. Squeaky wheel.

This behavior would not violate the TOS. The relevant parts are:

3.2 Disruption. You may not in any way disrupt or interfere with the Game experience of other players, including the disruption of Square Enix's computers and servers.

As long as you don't tell, harass or force players to use the FC instead of the marketboard, you will be ok. You're merely offering an alternative to players who want this broken system fixed. Players are still free to use the marketboard.

3.6 Any Illegal Activities. You may not conduct any illegal activities whatsoever in connection with the Game. This includes every illegal activity not specifically highlighted above, including without limitation gambling, defamation, harassment, and fraud

Don't defame SE in your world messages. Don't write stuff like "We have to do this because SE su***!"

3.9 Non-Commercial Spamming/Spimming. You may not use (or abuse) the in-game chat and message services to harass other players.

Even though people Tell to recruit for their FCs, I wouldn't do that for this FC.

I would do this myself, but I don't have time right now with my job and covid-19 preparations for the semester. You could also do what I did and let your sub lapse. If you do this, I'd suggest sending SE a note to let them know why.

https://support.na.square-enix.com/c...382&la=1&fty=1

I posted mine under Contact Category "In-game", Contact Sub-Category "Other" and in "Summary of your Inquiry," I wrote: I am quitting because of bots.