I don't blame you for being skeptical, from the outside looking in it can be frustrating(and it's equally frustrating on our side, trust me on that).
We weren't entirely sure why such features broke down despite working untouched(frustration point here), but do understand that sometimes code can deprecate. Things not made robust tend to break down or a fault in the system makes itself known, hence we are rebuilding it and working to bring those things back. Our players deserve to have such engagement features and be rewarded for their time.
I apologize on the poor optics on this issue, not our best effort I admit. We'll correct that and will post progress as we make it.
For the last bit, not entirely sure, I do want to suggest that we have a "make good" effort for players once we fix it. Need clearance and to figure out what that "make good" will be.