They've been doing that for a good 20 years at least. Might be more common but it's nothing new. I only say that not to correct you but just to say it's pretty common knowledge. It also has to be written on the menu.

They do seem to be getting more reluctant and even sometimes angry when removing it though.

In London it’s gotten significantly worse in recent years (post-Covid).

Service charge used to be an exception only added to bills for large groups of diners, now they’re the rule.

Pretty standard in jurisdictions where tipping isn’t common, esp for larger groups. Usually noted on the menu but you can always decline if the hardworking minimum wage staff did not meet your satisfaction or if you can’t afford it.