Rules Question: Are Automated API Polling (Cron Jobs) for Strategic Info Allowed?
My idea is to have a script that automatically calls the Torn API for me, perhaps once every 2 minutes. This script would run 24/7 on a server, even when I'm offline. The technical term for this kind of scheduled task is a cron job.
The sole purpose of this script would be to read data from the API .
Is This Permitted?
I've read the Torn Game Rules, specifically regarding "Cheating, exploiting & scripting." The rule states:
"The use of scripts, extensions, applications or any other kind of software is allowed only if it uses data from our API or a page you have loaded manually and are currently viewing. They cannot make additional non-API requests to Torn, scrape pages that you're not currently viewing, or attempt to bypass the captcha. If the software you're using makes non-API requests that are not manually triggered by you, it is not allowed and can be tracked. "
Based on that rule, it seems like my plan is allowed.
This is the gray area I need help with. Does the automated, systematic collection of other users' status data ("Okay" to "Traveling," or "Okay" to "In hospital") for the express purpose of timing strategic actions cross a line?
Is this considered a fair and intended use of the API, or does it go against the spirit of the rules by creating an unfair advantage through scripting?