06/03/2026
Stephanie Barkley says, "But that's proof enough that it's a scam."
I have to disagree. In my opinion, asking people to donate anonymously is not proof of a scam. Asking people to protect their privacy is simply common sense when there are individuals openly discussing donor information and documenting who gave what.
The real question is: Why would anyone be concerned with tracking donors in the first place?
Stephanie even asked, "Because they fear that people will contact family members of the elderly that have donated to the scam?" To me, this is another manipulation tactic. By framing the question that way, she is planting ideas in her followers' minds and encouraging them to think along a specific path.
So yes, I am concerned for those who have donated. Not because I know anyone will be contacted, but because no donor should have to worry about their name, their family, or their personal affairs becoming the subject of online discussion. No one—and I mean no one—should be harassed over a donation they voluntarily made.
By suggesting anonymous donations, we are trying to protect people from unwanted attention, criticism, harassment, or having their personal information become the next topic of conversation. Adults have the right to make their own financial decisions without worrying about being singled out online.
What I find concerning is how quickly protecting someone's privacy is being twisted into "proof" of wrongdoing. That kind of thinking can be used to manipulate people into believing a narrative without asking questions or considering alternative explanations.
In my opinion, what Stephanie is also doing here is attempting to be intimidating. Statements like these can send the message that if someone donates, they may find themselves being discussed, scrutinized, or having their information tracked. That can discourage people from exercising their own free will and making their own choices.
If someone chooses to donate, that is their choice. If someone chooses not to donate, that is their choice as well. But no one should feel pressured, intimidated, monitored, or targeted for making a personal decision.
Privacy is not proof of a scam. Sometimes privacy is simply protection from people who refuse to respect boundaries.