#1 imo is the fact that some orgs are resilient to libel, and some are heavily affected. If someone is lying about your security protect in order to harm your reputation, I don't find it odd to respond with some zeal.

#2 on the other hand sounds unhinged, though no source is provided. Threatening legal action for broad criticism of project management is wild.

Its not broad criticism, its attacks that use criticism as a false excuse. Defending themselves neutrally and objectively is not unhinged.