Ethics matter, i agree. Rule of law matters? I am really not sure, it needs to be considered case by case: Things change over time, new laws come in that make old things illegal. Do i have to accept them blindly or not is a personal decision.

Coming to the point, you did not mention what part of Gizmodo story you think is ethically wrong. Ethics matter, rule of law matters, try our best, learn from mistakes, etc. are kinda universal truths, everybody knows. Say something concrete to the point!