Yep that's the nature of the Matrix. Problem is regardless of how aware we become we still have to live in that Matrix all the while that it exists. We can unplug in part from it, but not entirely.
Having a bit of silver and gold gets you out of the Matrix a little bit, because you don't have to rely 100% on the government run money system. Gold and Silver can't be taxed because it isn't in the bank. There is no trace of it because there are no electronic transactions.
If the banks closed tomorrow - most people will be stuffed without the use of cash or credit / debit / bank cards. What good are "survival skills" when you live in an urban center that could be under Martial Law? Or in another example if the economy crashed, cash becomes useless. If you live in an urban center and don't (or can't) grow your own food - well you are going to need something. Skills and barter will only go so far unfortunately. Most people are still stuck in the "money" mentality - and they will still be stuck in that mentality even once the money is long gone.