Most people think attacks are random. They’re not.
Criminals pick who to rob, assault, or stalk…and they’re shockingly good at it. You get sized up in seconds. Your posture, your attention, your walk…all of it sends a signal.
If you look like an easy mark, you just became one.
This post breaks down how they choose targets, what makes someone stand out, and how to flip the script, without becoming paranoid or weird.
Criminals Don’t Want a Fight…They Want a Payout
You’re not dealing with movie villains. Most attackers are looking for a fast, low-risk win.
They want:
- A distracted or unaware target
- Someone physically or mentally off-balance
- A quiet space with no witnesses
- An easy escape route
They avoid:
- Alert people who scan their surroundings
- Anyone with confident posture or assertive behavior
- Groups or areas with cameras and witnesses
This isn’t theory. Multiple studies (including one famous 1981 NYU study) had convicts pick targets just by watching people walk. They consistently flagged the same individuals…people who moved awkwardly, looked down, or seemed lost.
That’s who gets picked. Every time.
How You Get Flagged as a Target (Without Realizing It)
There are five common ways people make themselves easy to target, most without knowing it:
1. Head Down, Lost in Thought
You’re walking while texting or thinking about your to-do list. That’s Condition White…zero awareness. To a criminal, you’re basically walking cash.
2. Awkward or Uncoordinated Movement
Shuffling feet, tight arms, weird stride, or hesitation all signal weakness or uncertainty. Predators look for movement that says “I’m not confident.”
3. Distraction Traps
Criminals often “interview” their victims:
- “Can you help me with directions?”
- “Do you have the time?”
- “Hey, do I know you from somewhere?”
They’re testing your response. If you’re polite but firm, they usually move on. If you’re overly helpful or nervous, they might proceed.
4. Routine and Predictability
Always park in the same spot? Jog the same trail every morning? Criminals notice patterns. Predictable = exploitable.
5. Standing Out (in a bad way)
Looking visibly confused. Wearing flashy gear. Broadcasting wealth (jewelry, expensive bags, visible cash). These all draw the wrong kind of attention.
What Works: How to Avoid Being Chosen
You don’t have to fight off attackers. You just have to avoid being picked. Here’s how:
Walk with Purpose
Even if you’re not sure where you’re going, act like you do. Keep your head up. Shoulders relaxed. Natural stride. Don’t be the person who looks lost or aimless.
Scan Your Surroundings (Lightly)
You don’t need to whip your head around. Just lift your eyes. Check mirrors, windows, shadows. Use your ears. Build the habit of being aware without being paranoid.
Vary Your Routine
Don’t be predictable. Change routes, times, and parking spots. If someone’s watching, this alone can throw them off.
Be Assertive Early
If someone approaches you with weird vibes or unnecessary friendliness, don’t engage deeply. A polite but firm, “I’m good, thanks” with eye contact goes a long way. Predators test boundaries. Don’t fail the test.
Project “Hard Target” Energy
You don’t need to be a fighter. You just need to look like someone who’s not worth the trouble. Calm. Confident. Aware. Even fake confidence works.
Try This: What You Can Practice Today
- Baseline yourself. Film yourself walking and look for signs of slouching, short stride, or hesitation. Then fix it.
- Play the predator. Watch a crowd. Who would you pick to rob if you were a criminal? Why? You’ll start seeing patterns.
- Train your family. Teach your spouse or kids how to scan their surroundings, walk with purpose, and stay alert in parking lots or restrooms.
This is one of the skills we train heavily in our Tradecraft for Real-World Mobility and Protection course. The fastest way to stay safe is to never get picked.
Want a Simple Personal Safety Checklist?
We’ve got a free downloadable Personal Target Hardening Checklist…based on everything in this post. Print it. Practice it. Share it with your team or family.
