The rumors are 100% incorrect. All character data from 1.0 is transferring to 2.0. There are some things that aren't transferring (like guild marks, faction points, some quest progress for incomplete quests, and other little things). But level progression will transfer. Gil will be modified as well due to the redenomination process (one digit of gil being removed all across the board, including npc prices). Finally, your inventory (if above the default 100 item limit) will be distributed to a storage npc but can be retrieved at any time up to a certain point. You'll also get a one time makeover chance on your character since graphics are changing and new character creation options are being added.
But yes, the rumor is completely baseless, as SE as already confirmed otherwise themselves.
But yes, the rumor is completely baseless, as SE as already confirmed otherwise themselves.