Quick rules question regarding the handicap exploit on GG

[Pootie Too Good]

-Exploiting the handicap by leaving and rejoining is not allowed. Any form of rank manipulation will not be tolerated.

That is the text of the rule. If i were to, say, be on level 6, acknowledge that before i leave to change a setting really quickly, and make the server aware by saying so, and rejoin afterwards, and still be on level 6, is that exploiting the handicap? If I didn't gain any levels, i don't see how it would be. Just wondering

asked this because i got banned for it