Apple’s terms explicitly prohibit using automated tools to scrape or analyze App Store data, even if it’s done outside an app. When they flag something like that, they usually don’t explain the reason — partly because they don’t want to expose how they evaluate developer activity or link accounts to external projects.
Not saying it’s definitely the cause, but it’s one plausible explanation the author was denied.
> When they flag something like that, they usually don’t explain the reason — partly because they don’t want to expose how they evaluate developer activity or link accounts to external projects.
Well, this is unacceptable considering the market power Apple has. It's basically an occupational ban for mobile app development. Imagine, if GitHub won't let you join (maybe) because you criticized Microsoft on Twitter 10 years ago, or (maybe) it's because they don't like the way you dress.
"What's your greatest weakness?"
"Well, I can't develop your app for half the market, because Apple unexpectedly challenged me with a self-improvement journey. But I am well on my way, really introspecting to find out where I failed in life, where I may have misspoken. I am confident I can soon regain Apple's trust and approval for my life decision, and become a full-market developer!"
> It’s not that uncommon for a 3rd party to report a developer for violating Apple ToS. Frequently, it’s out of spite towards the offending party and not out of love for Apple. Also, Apple employees sometimes report stuff they stumble upon too.
What evidence do you have for these claims?
Unless you work for Apple—indeed, unless you work specifically for Apple legal—it's unclear how in the world you would know how common this is or what Apple employees do.
Apple’s terms explicitly prohibit using automated tools to scrape or analyze App Store data, even if it’s done outside an app. When they flag something like that, they usually don’t explain the reason — partly because they don’t want to expose how they evaluate developer activity or link accounts to external projects.
Not saying it’s definitely the cause, but it’s one plausible explanation the author was denied.