But are we really free when we live in fear of these things? What kind of freedom is that? Sounds like bondage.

And certainly the Holy Spirit gives us wisdom and discernment:

Matthew 7:15-20 -- “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.