Disabilities and Dangerous Digital Footprints: The Need for Light-Touch Guidance

Abstract

Persons with intellectual and developmental disorders have the potential to derive considerable benefits from uptake of online environments. However, by reason of what may be their lack of discernment, their propensity to obsessionality and their digital naivete, they are at risk of both being victimised and engaging in unlawful forms of behaviour. This article identifies a number of scenarios in which such persons have been found by courts to have engaged in problematic conduct arising from their disorders and highlights the particular risks of online criminal offending. It calls for upskilling of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities so that they are better equipped to navigate the Internet without such risks. It also argues for online-aware professionals to develop light-touch forms of guidance to assist prudent and safe Internet usage for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.