Whether I like it or not, I think the airlines have a right to make rules about their "club." If you don't like the rules, then don't participate. Participation is voluntary, last I heard. Given the rules, it is very risky to disregard them publicly with strangers. It is far less risky to make a personal, private transaction between family or friends. If a friend or relative asked me for a frequent flyer ticket that was otherwise very expensive, then offerred to compensate me by giving me a gift certificate to my favorite store, I don't think I would lose sleep over this and would consider it if it would help my friend or relative. This hasn't ever happen - have had a few hint at a free ticket. I have no interest in giving them away just because I was asked. I feel my miles aren't free as I have worked very hard for them - even the "free" miles (ones where I didn't have to spend money to get them, - but usually spent time). I do not agree with the idea of suing the airlines over this. I believe the original poster and think his motives were purely to warn people and I am amazed at the level of scepticism. I don't blame him in the least to post this under a pseudonym as he sounded embarrassed at what he did and being caught. I think it was very nice of him to warn people, and I am not sure why people had to be so antagonistic towards him.