How criminals choose their victims

Criminals look for the easiest opportunity when deciding to commit a crime. Women particularly, are vulnerable to such crimes as theft, robbery, and assault. For the individual private citizen, the best defense against crime is avoidance. Simply put, don't be there or don't be the chosen victim. " While a crime is unquestionably the "fault" of the criminal, it is rarely mentioned that the *victim* was usually chosen because his behaviors said "I'm a good victim" to the criminal.

1. You might look like a good victim if you are walking with the cell phone up to your ear. It may look fashionable but it distracts you from paying attention to your surroundings.


2. You might look like a good victim if you go to places/around people/into situations where you know there is likely to be trouble. For some reason common sense evades us from time to time and we wind up where we know we should not be.  We say “I’m not afraid to go there.” Often famous last words.

3. You might look like a good victim if you don’t keep an eye out in all directions, especially behind you. If you think someone is following you, change directions and see if they do also; if they do, it is time to bug out! Always RUN TOWARD PEOPLE! Criminals, such as muggers and rapists, tend to hang out in areas where people are passing through, where there are victims to chose from, but a measure of isolation (mall parking lots being a prime example). Heads-up alertness and confidence will deter some criminals, but not all.

4. You might look like a good victim if you are in a place where help is at least twenty seconds away.  The criminal wants to position himself to overwhelm you before you can defend yourself or escape.  Do whatever it takes to avoid being caught in this position, because this is the final stage before the attack. He may try to get very close or corner you, or get behind you, or have an accomplice "pincer" you between them.

5. You might look like a good victim if the criminal comes up and ask for something (match, time, change, etc) and you appear too agreeable, too nervous, or distracted.

6. You might look like a good victim if you never check your vehicle before entering it. Also avoid fumbling with your keys before going into the house or getting into a car.

7. You might look like a good victim if you are not alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Knowing who and what is around you can help you avoid being surprised. It also allows you time to react if something does appear suspicious.

8. You might look like a good victim if you don’t display confidence. Remember criminals choose the victim who looks like the easiest target. That choice is partially based on their perception about your abilities to react to an attack. If you walk with purpose, scan the area around you, and make casual eye contact with others, you are displaying confidence.

9.  You might look like a good victim if you don' t react immediately and take action to reduce your risk. Trust your instincts. Your body will tell you when someone or something is suspicious. If you have an intuitive feeling something is wrong, do not second-guess yourself.

10.  You might look like a good victim if you don’t carry only what you need. Extra cash, credit cards, checks, jewelry and other items should be left at home. If it is necessary to carry a purse, keep it in front and close to your body. Men should keep wallets out of back pockets where they are easily stolen.  Carry wallets in front coat pockets or use a money clip as an alternative.

11.  You might look like a good victim if you are overburdened with packages. Carrying several shopping bags makes you look vulnerable. Request a store to hold your merchandise until you are finished with your shopping. If the store does not offer that service, place your purchases in the trunk
of your car before you buy additional items.

12.  You might look like a good victim if you shop alone. The chance of being victimized drops dramatically when you are with a companion. If there are three or more people together, the chance of being targeted for crime is 90% less than when alone.

13.  You might look like a good victim if you don't have your keys in hand when walking to your vehicle. The keys can be used as a defensive weapon and you will not waste time trying to find them when standing outside your vehicle. Carry a whistle or personal alarm. These devices will alert those   
around you that something is wrong.

14. You might look like a good victim if you don't choose areas to park where lighting is good and activity is high. Valuables in your vehicle should be kept out of view. Be sure to lock the car at all times. Most auto burglaries occur on cars that are left unlocked.