I started programming in the summer of 1982 (between my Sophomore and Junior years in high school), on a Commodore Vic-20.

In the time from that point until now, I can assure you that I have never, ever before heard the term "scotch file" or heard of any one describe such a thing.

So, two data points over 35+ years does not constitute a wall of fact, but I do believe it tends to cast a bit of doubt on the claim.