Recently, Independent Rehabilitation Services invited Jimmy Baker, a CyberABILITY Scambassador, to share his experience with our team. Many years ago, Jimmy acquired a severe brain injury (ABI) and has since been the victim of multiple online scams. Always having a curious soul, the internet offered connection during a time of social isolation. However, his cognitive impairments, a consequence of his injury, made him particularly vulnerable to the deceptive tactics of online scammers. Blackmail and romance scams are just two examples of the ways criminals took advantage of Jimmy’s online vulnerability over the years.


His experience, unfortunately, is not unique. Many people with ABI are prime targets for online scammers due to their cognitive and emotional challenges. This community may have difficulties with critical thinking, decision-making, and emotional regulation, making them more susceptible to manipulation and deception online. Jimmy believes that another major element of these scams helping draw in victims is their appeal to basic human needs. And although someone like Jimmy may know that they are being romantically scammed, he says the feeling it often provides can be so real.


Recognising this growing problem, a group of experts, scam survivors and advocates came together to form CyberABILITY with Monash University. This innovative program aims to empower people with ABI to navigate the digital world safely. Through a combination of online resources, workshops, and community support, CyberABILITY provides essential tools and knowledge to help individuals protect themselves from online scams.

One of the core components of this program is fostering a sense of community. By connecting with others who have similar experiences, individuals with ABI can share their stories, learn from each other, and build a support network. This sense of belonging is crucial in combating the isolation and shame that often accompany falling victim to a scam. CyberABILITY also offers practical advice on how to identify and avoid common scams. These include phishing emails, fake online stories, and social engineering tactics. By educating individuals about these techniques, the program empowers them to make informed decisions and protect themselves from harm.


Jimmy, through his involvement with CyberABILITY, has learned valuable lessons about online safety. He has become more cautious about clicking on suspicious links, sharing personal information, and transferring money to unknown individuals. Jimmy has also found solace and support within the CyberABILITY community, realising that he is not alone in his experience. With the support of this community, Jimmy has uncovered an additional purpose in his life – telling his story and helping others to avoid scams, while also reducing the stigma of admitting to being scammed.


For people with ABI, the digital world offers immense opportunities to connect, but it also presents significant risks. By raising awareness about online scams and providing practical tools and support, CyberABILITY is working to create a safer online environment for people with ABI. Empowering individuals to protect themselves, the program helps to prevent financial loss, emotional distress, and a diminished sense of well-being.