I don't even like it when hams want to "MARS Mod" their radios to use them on GMRS — even with the proper license — because carrying two radios is too inconvenient. When I was first starting out, I was guilty of that, but not for GMRS. Now that particular radio is set aside and not used and I won't ever sell it to someone else.
I agree. When I was young, I didn't know any better. Then I learned from those that did. Part of the hobby is learning from others.
...That was pre-consumer internet…
Now it seems to be "Some guy on the internet/YouToobs said it was OK, the FCC doesn't care, and you'll never get caught".
Then the integrity goes out the window. Disappointing to see it happen. Yet those same folks will get upset if some one dares talk about using amateur radio without a license.
Seems like there's a lot of hypocrisy in the hobbies, and it keeps getting worse. Individuals seem to encourage it, probably so they don't feel alone. If hams won't follow the rules, why should anyone else, huh?