How to Prevent a Mugger From Targeting You

Whether you're shopping at your neighborhood mall or traipsing through the streets of a major city, it's vital to be on the lookout for potential muggers. Mugging is a crime that often goes unnoticed, as victims don't notice their purse or wallet is missing until it's too late. Muggers are experts at what they do, robbing a multitude of victims stealthily. Learn how to avoid being a victim of a sticky-handed scoundrel.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Common sense
• Observation

1. If you carry a handbag or purse, carry one with short straps. When you sling your purse over your shoulder, it helps if the zipper or opening securely fits under your armpit. This reduces the opportunity a mugger has to reach in the bag.

2. Keep an eye on your purse at all times. If you're shopping at the grocery store, keep your purse on your shoulder at all times. If you tend to leave your bag in the cart, it takes a mere second for a mugger to reach in and grab your wallet while you turn your back.

3. If you're a man, place your wallet and keys in your front side or front pockets. By avoiding your back pockets, a mugger will have to risk the chance of you seeing them while they attempt to swipe your personal property.

4. If you go to the bank or use an ATM, try to do so with a companion or relative. If you happen to withdraw money from a bank along a city street, a mugger can watch you and follow you until they pick your pocket. Always be aware of your surroundings and report any unusual behavior.

5. Leave your social security card at home. There is no need to carry this important piece of information around with you and in the event you are mugged, you won't have to apply for a new one.

6. Be aware of any attempts to distract you. For example, many muggers use accomplices to help them rob you blind. If someone you don't know asks you for directions or information in a store or on a city street, look around and see if anyone appears to be watching you. Though you may feel like a Good Samaritan, you may be a victim in the end.

7. If you're a woman, carry your purse but keep your wallet in your pocket to throw off any potential muggers. By separating your valuables, you'll reduce the chances a mugger will walk off with your life savings.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your personal belongings close to you. The harder it is for a mugger to rob you, the less likely you'll be chosen as a victim.
• Avoid carrying expensive handbags or wearing flashy jewelry if you are in a questionable area. One key point in not being a victim is to avoid attracting a mugger to you.