Scale tool inconsistent Photoshop 21.0.2

Perhaps I have corrupted prefs, but I find the Trabsform function is not always constrained in XY, and I'm sometimes back to using shift key. Other times scaling IS constrained and shift key disables constraint. This tool had the same function for over 20 years. I know there has been discussion on this. But the inconsistant operation is a new time waster. Is it just me? (21.0.2)

I also find that phantom control points still occasionally appear using the pen tool. Again, perhaps it's my system. But these features were basically flawless for many years & suddenly erratic.

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