Can't use artifact equipment crystal despite purchase & use post-sub last year

I understand the game needs to make a profit, but is it really necessary to require a former subscriber to purchase artifact equipment authorization just to use the equipment I purchased with cartel coins and used in the past?

For reference, I retrieved the gold eviscerating crystal I haven't used in a while from my collections window. However, I can no longer use the crystal without purchasing an extra 1200 or 2500 coins worth for authorization to use this and other CC purchased gear.

I feel having to buy this type of authorization acts as a scam to players who have already had to purchase the other items they are now not authorized to use.

I appreciate the fact that artifact equipment authorization is automatically granted for being a sub, but does it really make sense to rip it from the player as soon as the subscription ends?