My opinion: typeface made as normal map isn't the same as source font. Here is few reasons:
1. In my job I'm using different fonts. And I can say -- in 99% of all cases I need to adapt typeface to my own vision or needs. I'm don't using font editors and have enough time for rework letters (point by point, curve by curve). So source font is just reference. I don't see any rational reasons to count my job as illegal.
2. If somebody uses some font for 3D, it's also not the same as using this font in text documents, PDF's, books etc... Because quality result demands some amount of work and changes the source look (extruding and viewing to extruded object from different points of view gives different look of letters than on a flat "paper"). Also for good result usually needed beveling, stretching, bending and/or other operations.
But it's just my opinion, because we are living in very interesting world where rules not logic but reach and power (KAPYTALYSM :)))))... For example Richemont SA holding company has patent for the look of broken circle (or arc) just for using it to fight with anybody who offers something that looks more or less similar to Cartiers "juste en clou" items ("bent nail" rings, bangles etc.)