There is no rule change. The process around DA is clearly documented in the Organised book. It is an action taken by a baptised person. It's not initiated by the congregation. The list of "DA by actions" is clear and specific.
I await JWDaughter's feedback on her specific circumstances but I suspect this is likely unilateral shunning by ones in the congregation in response to actions on the part of an individual.
I know of cases where people take it upon themselves to brand someone as having DA'ed themselves by their actions (e.g. fading and then doing something "sinful") but that's the individual justifying their own self-righteousness with a mis-interpretation of procedure.
I have no doubt there are cases of the mis-application of the process by Bodies of Elders as well but, again, this will be ones operating outside of the instructions.
At the end of day it's all academic of course. If ones want to shun you for whatever silly reason they like then they will.