It isn't really a hoax. It is the domino affect of politicians and leaders who are scared of the citizenry, not wanting to be accused of doing nothing in a media hyped frenzy. Perhaps you haven't noticed that the vast majority of citizens, even on this site, a scared well beyond the simple arithmetic of these things.
When they take rights from you, you will have to fight an actual battle to get them back. This mess will be lifted by decree.