Kim W5TIT wrote:

Whenever I used to bootleg--and I did before I was licensed, I always made
extra sure to stay out of ham radio frequencies--most hams know too much
about R&R and DFing.

Such seems in character for you, Kim.

I won't do it now but only because I don't want to
compromise my license.

So, not because it was illegal, only so you don't lose your license.

Dave K8MN