Jeff - of course they are using fear.
But really what I think is going on is this. This is a big push against the internet.
HOW?
1) The end is near - the gestapo is coming - so to be loyal (and have dog on your side) you must - SHUN and keep shunning any who have been DFed.
2) Also all the "loyalty" massive push that is going on is about - DON'T look at anything said on the internet - Don't believe any news reports about Child Abuse in the org.
3) Don't listen to anyone but us.Â
That's how FEAR works for them.
It's all about keeping those IN - IN.