So, Gabriel is home, and I have been euphoric about the amazing steps he has taken in his journey towards independence!
Successful freshman year in the OU Sooner Works program? Check!
Flew alone for the first time? Check!
However, my feelings of euphoria came to a screeching halt when I asked to look at his phone.
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In the fall, Gabriel fell victim to a phishing scheme. He met someone on Twitter (X) who claimed to be actress Jenna Ortega. Believing this, he gave out his phone number, and the scammer engaged in polite conversation, sent him pictures of the actress, and eventually asked him for money.
Over several weeks, Gabriel was manipulated into sharing screenshots of his bank account, account number, Oklahoma zip code, and US Social Security Number. (Yes, I’ll be filing an identity fraud report immediately).
Thankfully, the situation ended without a major incident. His account had very few funds since it was created mainly for teaching purposes, and I had tied the bank account to my phone number—not his—so I received all security codes. **I remember multiple code requests in October, but Gabriel was not forthcoming with the situation—he simply told me he kept trying to log in but had forgotten his password.
When the scammer became rude, Gabriel blocked them. However, after everything, Bank of America closed his account due to fraud concerns.
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In all honesty, we were very lucky. This situation could’ve gone straight south, but it didn’t.
First, I wasn’t going to check his phone as I wanted to honor his independence, but I’m glad I did – as before I saw this, we were even considering adding him to our own bank account.
Next, I don’t remember making the express decision to tie his bank account to my phone number, but I’m very glad I did – as the scammer would most probably have gained access to his account and who knows what would’ve happened from there…
I am also deeply sad and frustrated because Daniel and I have had multiple conversations with him about this very topic (privacy of information). Despite all our warnings, he was still misled.
Finally, I am beyond angry. I absolutely fail to understand those who prey upon others’ vulnerabilities. With his Autism, it is so difficult for Gabriel to be social in person, so he gravitates toward online contact. I’m sure he was happy to have someone to chat with – someone who acted interested in him. Why did it have to be someone, with no morals, who was trying to take advantage of him.. (?)
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I share this story to spread awareness and highlight the deep importance of careful scaffolding in any independence-building exercise with vulnerable people. Teaching online safety and financial security is vital.
Independence is indeed a journey, not a destination, and ensuring a safety net can prevent potential disaster.
Autismdreamx3 