They are purposely balkanizing the space. When the eventual webs of trust are formed then the social divisions have weight. Its clockwork.

Step 1 appeal to safety. Scare ppl

Step 2 scared ppl will self organize with others who have same fears.

Step 3. Turn the fearful against each other.

Step 4. While they are fighting each other, we take all their stuff

Old game. People always fall for it. Always.