This seems like just a mistake: The current LW terms of service (posted on April 23) forbid the use of automated scripts to export your posts or comments from the site.
You are explicitly prohibited from: [...] 5. Using a spider, scraper, or other automated technology to access the Website;
My understanding is that restrictions like this exist so that all scrapers / spiders / etc. can be banned or blocked at will if they become bothersome. If you put a restriction like “Don’t use a spider, scraper, or other automated technology that interferes with the operation of the website” now you might have a fight on your hands over whether or not something actually “interfered” with the website.
This seems like just a mistake: The current LW terms of service (posted on April 23) forbid the use of automated scripts to export your posts or comments from the site.
This would include some of the tools listed on the site FAQ.
My understanding is that restrictions like this exist so that all scrapers / spiders / etc. can be banned or blocked at will if they become bothersome. If you put a restriction like “Don’t use a spider, scraper, or other automated technology that interferes with the operation of the website” now you might have a fight on your hands over whether or not something actually “interfered” with the website.