Jessica - unfortunately, there are too many people that don't take the time to do the proper research about this technology called Bitcoin.

Never in the history of the world had it been possible to transfer value between distant peoples without relying on a trusted intermediary, such as a bank or government.

Your statement here: "The only big difference I see is that it can now happen outside the domain and authority of governments"...is a perfect example.

I'm attaching a link to address the FUD and misinformation that has been circulating for quite some time. https://endthefud.org/.

By the way, it's back up to $40k already - volatility is the natural state of an emerging world asset/ technology class.