Be Scam Smart

In this guide

• How to protect children from scams in online games
• Activities to practise critical thinking
• More resources to support neurodivergent young people

How to protect children from scams in online games

Neurodivergent children are more likely than their neurotypical counterparts to benefit from the online space. Unfortunately, they’re also more likely to experience harm, including scams.

Those with ADHD, autism, learning disabilities or other divergent ways of thinking and processing information might not recognise when someone intends to do harm. Online, this becomes even more difficult.

So, when addressing online scams with your neurodivergent child, remember to use concrete examples and terminology. Use examples and practise spotting scammers to help them build the critical thinking skills they need.

Download full guide for parents and carers

Explore how neurodivergent children’s unique traits can leave them open to scams in their favourite online games spaces.

In the guide below, you’ll explore the risks, types of non-financial scams and ways that you can help prevent and deal with these scams.

Be Scam Smart guide

Learn about preventing scams in online games.

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Activities to practise critical thinking

One of the best ways to help your child develop their critical thinking is through conversations. Sharing examples of scams, discussing signs and deciding on steps to take if they’re not sure can help reduce the chances of the risk turning to harm.

The story activity below can help you start the conversation. Read each scenario together and talk through the options. Then, compare it to their real experiences in the games they play to help make it feel more real.

What could you do?

Do this activity with your child to help prevent online scams.

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Video for young people

Watch this video with your neurodivergent child to help them learn about games they might come across in their favourite online games.

Younger children are unlikely to be the target of financial scams, but there are still other scams to know about.

In this video, your child will learn the signs to look for and how to get help.

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