I tend to use it on occasions, really good for checking out buildings before entering. Although you still need to be wary due to assassin. It's no big deal if the enemies are using it, sit rep helps there.

Does it do anything in HC? Does the mini map pop up if you throw it in HC? I've only used it in core.

I love it. It's awesome when our entire team has them spread out over the map, so we don't need uavs.

exactly...most of the time we have at least 3 on the map during DOM.

you are not being forced its useful for defending routs  run scrambler there fixed there are counter to it like the emp grenade there are ways to counter it bar from assassin so dont say you are forced because you are not