API - Content Scraping Question

[Pkshields]

I would like to just ask a question on Content Scraping. One of the sites I run at the minute uses another websites API (This API). The main reason for the site is to provide access to the videos on Giant Bomb in another player which is supported by PS3s, etc. which their player does not. The reason why I ask is because at the minute I am storing basic information on the videos (name, image location etc.) in a database to reduce cURL usage, calls to the API and to provide a little more organisation. It is within their terms, as others have done it with Boxee apps etc., but I thought I should check before I move the site here so I don't suddenly have a permaban thrown at me :tongue:.

 

[Skizzerz]

From our Terms of Service:

* Script Hosting: Space provided by x10Hosting is to be used to create a functional website, we do not allow bots, content scrapers, or any other script that runs continuously on your account. Any scripts that are executed via cron or manually must be directly related to your website.

That said, it does appear that the script is related to your website, so I'm not 100% sure if that's applicable or not. As such, I can't give you a definitive answer but I would recommend erring on the side of caution. I'll see if I can get someone who will know for sure to reply as well

 

[Pkshields]

Since I have the time to move the site now, could I just ask this again. The script is related to the site, just want to ensure its allowed and not considered scraping.

 

[cybrax]

Strictly speaking it's not scraping if the site providing the data has given you permision to aquire and re-use the content, I would guess as a premium client such requests to openly use this API would be looked upon favourably. I run something very similiar using YQL/Pipes on a free hosting account and this has caused no problems.

 

[Livewire]

Only reason I hate content scraping in the TOS is there's legitimate reasons to scrape, and then there's reasons I end up suspending for, such as scraping the top hits from a site known to traffic warez and illegal TV shows.

Frankly, far as I'm concerned, if what you're scraping isn't in violation of the TOS and isn't majorly abusive on resources, I can't see it being an issue, and that probably means a lot given that I am REALLY enthusiastic about suspending