Comment by Fluorescence

That's not entirely wrong but I dislike the framing.

It appears to transfer the guilt of a successful deception that manufactures consent to public morality and the vulnerable. The real issue is it couldn't succeed without mendacious officials that suffer no consequences and uncritical/supportive media pushing the ball across the line.

It's also a much broader phenomenon than "protect the vulnerable". There are many other overused buttons they press to seek consent e.g. fear being the most common. Fear of terrorism, fear of job losses or tax rises, prejudice of others etc.