It's hard toe believe people (professionals, at least) are still using GoDaddy. Their shenanigans are well-documented, so the only reason stories like these could keep showing up in places frequented by people who should know better would seem to be name recognition. GoDaddy is the McDonald's of domains. You shouldn't be surprised if you go to McDonald's and get McDonald's-tier service. Although on second thought, Jiffy Lube may be a more apt comparison: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jiffy_Lube#Controversy

Is this not front running?

McDonalds don't change the prices on the menu when they see you walk through the door looking particularly hungry.