In society today, it seems like the ones creating or maintaining rumors like a supply shortage are also the ones out in the parking lot or online selling those items at a higher price. It's strange people will pay money just to be manipulated and robbed. That's how it's always been though. People make money selling fear.

If shit ever truly hit the fan, we'd all notice right away. There'd be very little information though. You'd be placed directly in it and finding answers would be the least of your worries. The manipulative types; whether they're being aggressive or playing on your heartstrings would most likely be the first to be wiped out. The world would learn fast nobody can be trusted.