Of the pros and cons of plagiarism

I have received a wonderful compliment without even knowing it! It wasn't until this morning, while on a google search, that I found out.
So what was it?
Another professional studio has copied and pasted my dermal anchor information and guidelines on their website, almost word for word!
You know what they say, imitation is the most sincere form of flattery. My knowledge and expertise must be very highly valued to feature on their website. And it is good to know that a tried and tested set of aftercare guidelines can now get to a wider audience. But you don't need to take my word for it, follow the link to our info:

Dermal info (original)

And for the new, and oh so very slightly modified? Just follow the link:

Dermal info (new)

Look familiar?

I suppose there is a rather worrying idea that occurs. If that was just a quick copy / paste, then replace studio names. What else is? How much plagiarism actually happens within the tattoo / body piercing industry. If you are looking at a portfolio, how much of it belongs to the studio? Is it right for a studio to use content that isn't theirs to promote their business?
We prefer to keep things all above board, that's why I do all the writing, ensuring it is all cohesive, and definitely ours. Even our pictures are tied, notice how most of them have our brick wall in the background? I guess that way there are no grounds to question our ability, ethics or professionalism. Call me facetious, but that is really important to me, and Urban Piercings.

Of a frightening lack of regulation

I wanted to share with you all, something that I think everyone should know. Often I am asked 'can I see your certificate?', 'are you registered?' and many questions on a similar line. I show my certificate but what does that actually mean? Does it mean my sterilization procedures have been examined? How about my competency tested? Nope, none of the above. Here is a quote from Reading Borough Council.
'Anyone carrying out cosmetic piercing within Reading Borough must be registered to do so and also register the premises in which they operate.'
Sounds good doesn't it? Read on.
'The Council cannot refuse to register a premise . . .'
So after an arbitrary, and woefully lacking inspection, you are certified to perform whatever you like on whomever walks through your doors. Follow the link on the title of this post to RBC's website and read it for yourself. And I'm sure it varies little across the different councils.

Worried now?