No More Victims:

Protecting Those with Autism from Cyber Bullying,

Internet Predators & Scams

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©2013 Jed Baker
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ISBN: 978-1-935274-94-0

Introduction

1: Types of Internet Victimization

2: How to Prevent Cyber Bullying

3: How to Protect Kids from Online Predators

4: Don’t Be a Victim of Internet Scams

5: An Insider’s View of Keeping Safe in the Digital World
(by Jennifer M^cIlwee Myers)

APPENDIX A: “Be a Hero, Not a Bully” Contract

APPENDIX B: Use of Phone and Internet Contract

References

About the Author

The digital world of cell phones and other Internet devices offers a wonderful way to communicate and socialize with others. Yet, it is also rife with dangers of being victimized emotionally, physically, and financially. In this book, I address three main areas of concern that pertain especially to individuals with autism spectrum disorders: cyber bullying, online sexual predators, and Internet scams.

Individuals on the autism spectrum may be particularly susceptible to these types of scams because of challenges with being able to gauge and understand others’ intentions, isolation, increased time online, and difficulty with developing assertive communication skills. It can be hard for them to determine when an online perpetrator may be bullying or trying to exploit someone, if they have difficulty with perspective taking and understanding other people’s motives and intent. The social isolation individuals on the spectrum experience makes them more likely to spend time online and more apt to respond to online scammers and predators who offer friendship, romance, or other rewards. Finally, difficulty with communication skills may make it especially challenging to seek help or end communications with online perpetrators.

I have based the advice in this book on current research about cyber bullying, online predators, and scams. However, there is no substitute for hearing the perspective of someone on the spectrum who negotiates the dangers of the digital world on a daily basis. Thus, Chapter 5 features Jennifer M^cIlwee Myers, an insightful author with Asperger’s syndrome. She provides an insider’s view of how she stays safe on the Internet. She also explains what parents and others can do to help their loved ones use the Internet safely.