How Criminals Choose Their Targets (And How to Make Sure It’s Not You)
Introduction
Most people think crime is random.
It’s not.
In many cases, criminals are making quick decisions based on what they see—who looks distracted, unaware, or easy to approach. The difference between being targeted and being passed over often comes down to one thing: situational awareness.
If you understand what they’re looking for, you can avoid becoming the easiest option.
What Criminals Look For in a Target
Criminals don’t want a challenge. They want control, speed, and low risk.
Here are the most common signals they look for:
Head down, focused on a phone
Wearing both earbuds or headphones
Not scanning surroundings
Slow, hesitant, or unsure movement
Distracted while unlocking a car or door
Standing alone in isolated or poorly lit areas
These behaviors send a clear message:
“This person isn’t paying attention.”
And that’s exactly what they want.
The “Interview” Phase (Most People Miss This)
Before anything happens, there’s often a moment where a potential target is tested.
This is sometimes called the interview phase.
It can look like:
Someone getting unnecessarily close
A stranger asking a question to distract you
A person watching your reaction as they approach
Someone trying to get you to stop or hesitate
They’re not just interacting—they’re evaluating.
They’re asking:
Are you aware?
Will you respond?
Are you an easy target?
Your reaction in this moment matters more than you think.
How to Make Yourself a Hard Target
You don’t need to look aggressive or confrontational. You just need to look aware and in control.
Simple changes make a big difference:
Keep your head up and eyes moving
Make brief, confident eye contact when appropriate
Walk with purpose and direction
Limit distractions (especially your phone)
Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is
Create space if someone is getting too close
Awareness alone can disrupt someone’s plan.
Why Awareness Works
Criminals rely on surprise, hesitation, and distraction.
When you remove those factors:
You’re harder to approach
Harder to control
Harder to predict
And most importantly…
You’re not worth the risk.
Real-World Examples
Parking Lot Scenario
You’re walking to your car, looking at your phone. Someone notices. They change direction and start moving toward you.
Now compare that to:
Head up
Scanning
Keys ready
Aware of movement around you
Same environment. Completely different outcome.
Public Space Scenario
You’re sitting in a café with headphones in, focused on your screen.
Versus:
Sitting where you can see entrances/exits
Occasionally scanning the room
Aware of who’s coming and going
Again—same setting, different level of awareness.
Common Mistakes That Make You Easier to Target
Assuming “it won’t happen to me”
Ignoring gut instincts
Overusing your phone in public
Wearing both earbuds in unfamiliar environments
Failing to notice who or what is around you
These aren’t just habits—they’re signals.
Build Awareness Before You Need It
Situational awareness isn’t something you turn on in a dangerous moment. It’s something you build daily.
If you want to improve your awareness in real-world situations, start here:
👉 Situational Awareness: How to Stay Alert and Avoid Danger in Public
That guide breaks down simple habits you can use immediately to stay aware and in control.
Take It Further
Awareness is a skill—and like any skill, it improves with practice.
If you want to build it into your daily routine, these simple exercises will help:
👉 Situational Awareness Training: 5 Simple Drills You Can Do Every Day
Final Thought
You don’t need to be stronger, faster, or more experienced than someone else.
You just need to be more aware.
Because in most cases, the person who’s paying attention is the one who gets left alone.