A preliminary study of autism and cybercrime in the context of international law enforcement. Issue 1 (30th July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ledingham, Rebecca; Mills, Richard
• Is Part Of: Advances in autism. Volume 1:Issue 1(2015)
• Page Start: 2
• Page End: 11
• Publication Date: 2015-07-30
• Subjects: Autism -- Criminal justice -- Profiling -- Law enforcement -- Cybercrime -- Asperger syndrome; Autism -- Periodicals; Autistic people -- Services for -- Periodicals; 362.19685882
• DOI: 10.1108/AIA-05-2015-0003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-3876

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to explore the association of cybercrime, autistic spectrum conditions and international law enforcement, the past decade having seen a significant growth in reported cybercrimes involving autistic individuals. Design/methodology/approach: – Interest in the profile of autism and cybercrime and the pathways whereby such offences are committed is shared by key law-enforcement agencies worldwide. This was explored by literature review and survey. Findings: – The authors identified a presence of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders but no empirical evidence to suggest a prevalence or an over representation of autistic individuals committing cybercrime offences. At present profiling, pathways, and recording is under developed. Research limitations/implications: – Paucity of literature on cybercrime and autism. Awareness of autism within law-enforcement agencies and the absence of key diagnostic and other data from the cross-section of agencies surveyed. Practical implications: – Improve detection, diversion, profiling, risk and pathways into cybercrime. Social implications: – Better prediction of risk of cybercrime and improved responses. Originality/value: – Original paper believed to be the first to look at cybercrime and ASD in the context of international law enforcement.