How do you keep yourself safe?

Sorry to hear that, it is very worrying. I think bouncing them off other people is worth a try, and I think I might see if I can take someone who can deal with these things better along with me if I can so I can see how they deal with it. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks for your reply

Yes.. I have lost vast sums of money and been nearly killed because of this.

Always try to evaluate the importance of decisions and bounce them off other people for their reactions!

People with autism tend to be vulnerable in this way.  All you can really do is learn not to go along with people - say no thanks, and walk way.  Avoiding people completely is safe, but means you don't learn to deal with them better, and not very practical or healthy.

Thank you for your reply, it is always helpful to remember to say 'no' and be firm. I am thinking of times where I've had no choice but to talk to them, like if I'm buying a car, or right now I'm looking for a house to buy and it has been utterly horrendous trying to deal with estate agents. 

The key thing to remember is the word "no", closely followed by the phrase "fk off and leave me alone". 

Seriously, using common sense when approaching these situations is something you should do and learn to ignore people or say "no, im not interested".  Never sign anything, until you read all the small print or at least have the basic of it down.

I honestly don't go anywhere near these situations anymore.  I avoid people almost all the time unless I know them.  I especially avoid going anywhere with market researchers and sales people.  If I do get accosted by someone I politely tell them i'm not interested, if that doesnt work I tell them to "fk off" and am happy to take it to the next level if required.  Most people will move on to an easier target.