At least one of us is in a bubble. Whenever it comes up in conversation among general groups, at east half the people are adamant it was all a waste of time and money, and driven my frauds trying to make easy money.
Of the remainder, perhaps half don't really have an opinion.
The remaining 25% vaguely accept that it was a real problem, but are not at all aware of the real extent.
Anecdata, to be sure, but you might want to spread your net more widely when asking people what they think.
