Online Safety Guide for People With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Recently I received an email directing me to the below information. I believe everyone should be safe online, but I think this post is great for the direction to those with ASD. Please check out the full Online Safety Guide page as well as my updated Where To Find More Information page. Thank you Chris!
People from all walks of life and all kinds of backgrounds fall victim to online bullying and cybercrime, but studies have shown that those with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more susceptible to online threats than others.
ASD is a developmental disorder that affects behavior and communication. People on the Autism Spectrum tend to live a relatively normal life but can need supervision and lack judgement – a trait that has been identified as dangerous when left to their own devices in cyberspace.
Not only are ASD children and adults at risk from others, but they can also develop compulsive online habits and internet addictions, and can be more deeply affected by exposure to inappropriate content.
Everyone should feel safe online. It’s therefore extremely important to make sure you have adequate online security and remain internet vigilant.
To help you surf with ease and reduce your vulnerability to attack, take a look at our Internet Safety Guide for people with ASD.
Table of Content:
01 Cyberbullying
02 Understanding the Context of Online Messages
03 Becoming a Victim of a Scam, Manipulation or Hacking
04 Exposure to Inappropriate Content
05 Sensory Overload on the Internet
06 Internet Addiction
07 How to Protect Yourself on Popular Social Networks
08 Online Dating and ASD
09 How to Tell if Someone is Who They Say They Are
10 Signs that Something Might be Wrong Online
11 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Internet Safety
12 Conclusion
Common Online Issues
There are always an array of threats surfing along the waves of cyberspace. Familiarize yourself with what they are and be extra vigilant – a plan of action is most definitely in order. Below, we have selected the most common online issues faced by those with ASD and provide tips on how to take control of the situation.
