The Urban Geek As A Mugger Magnet? 2063
CGP314 writes "I live in London and whenever I travel around, I feel like a huge target for muggers. Usually I take my laptop, iPod, cell phone and occasionally a PDA around with me. As with many geeks, these items hold within them far more value to me than anything I leave behind in my apartment. So I would like to know what my fellow urban geeks do to try and keep their valuables safe while traveling with them. I've switched my iPod headphones from the distinctive white to a boring black as a means of camouflage; are there any other suggestions?"
Instead of prevention.... (Score:2, Interesting)
Two things (Score:5, Interesting)
2. Are you seriously telling me that you carry around with you data that you can't recover ?? No-one expects you to pray to the backup gods religiously every morning before breakfast, but seriously it's not hard to keep things at least roughly synced with a more-permanent base. Use any PC, connect 'em up and hit go, grab a coffee and it's done.
I don't expect to get mugged, but there's always the chance I'll forget to pick up my bag, or drop the portable, or some idiot will spill his pint of beer over me, or (pick some random occurrence). BACK IT UP!
[aside: I *have* heard from Ipod owners (I'm not one such) that the white earphones are in fact the cause of several muggings, and they're crap quality anyway, so I can understand ditching them. That's about the only step I'd take though, and more for quality reasons than safety ones]
Simon
Re:Not a problem here (Score:4, Interesting)
Re:Not a problem here (Score:3, Interesting)
While you're digging out crime statistics, how about some US & UK gun related death figures? Particularly interesting are those ones about how much more likely you are to get shot if you own a gun for 'your protection'...
Re:Get a gun (Score:5, Interesting)
Wow, that sucks. I've never been mugged. I don't even know anyone whose been mugged.... I don't think anyone I know knows anyone who's been mugged...
Step 1: make back-ups (Score:4, Interesting)
The headphone switch was a good first step. Next should be the laptop carrying case.
I suggest a backpack, especially if yours is at all heavy. Something that doesn't look too snazzy is good. Worn-out looking is best, but that's not always possible and looks mighty suspicious if you're wearing a nice suit. Put the PDA in it too.
Ok, so that's all the security by obscurity stuff. Surely we can come up with better than this- and I'm not thinking guns, pepper spray or tazers, which make it even more likely that you will get seriously injured. A lot of thieves these days don't operate alone, and they have toys too.
Other things you might keep in mind: making all the data useless to the thieves. And how about a laptop or PDA with wireless and GPS that can report its coordinates? Would it be considered unsafe to put in your own backdoor on a system for cases of theft?
And did I mention make back-ups?
This is bullshit... (Score:4, Interesting)
If someone tries to rob you then you have the right to protect yourself and apprehend them. What you don't have the right to do is kick the shit out of them because they tried to rob you.
There's a world of difference between having no right to defend yourself and not having the right to use a mugging attempt as a reason to do an American History X on someone.
Re:Feelings (Score:5, Interesting)
You guys are all INSANE (Score:2, Interesting)
To the guy who suggested using a kubotan (for those who don't know, it is basically a 6 inch metal bar of about a half inch diameter that is often attached to your keychain) you must be insane. Unless the guy mugging you is completely physically disabled and incompetent you aren't gonna fight him off with a kubotan, especially if you're being mugged by a group of people. (which usually is the more probably situation these days)
To all the people who suggested arming yourself with guns, MACE, and so on, once again he is in LONDON. Secondly, if you shoot a guy that just approaches you and verbally harasses you (telling you to give him your iPod), you will be the one screwed by the law. Always keep in mind when you are justified using lethal force.
Martial arts will probably not help you in this situation as well. Chances are the guy will be armed and he will have buddies. Unless you have years of training in the RIGHT martial art you probably stand very little chance. Most people don't realize this and think that their "black belt" in Tae Kwon Do will save them. Good luck.
Overall, your best bet is not to arm yourself or go out and learn Ninjitsu. Your best bet is to do 2 things:
1) Practice awareness and PREVENTIVE measures. Think of it like your health. It's better to keep yourself healthy and PREVENT the clogged arteries, than it is to get to that stage and then try and tackle the problem.
Be street smart. Don't expose all your gadgets. Maybe don't carry some of your gadgets if you don't absolutely need them. Keep them concealed and be alert all the time. Basic things like: don't walk by yourself in secluded areas at night if you feel at high risk, watch the environment you are in, and so on are always good practice. If you see suspicious people walk away from them or keep a distance, always looking for multiple exit paths to run away on.
2) RUN. Imho one of the BEST self defense attributes after preventive measures is the ability to run long distances with great endurance, and the ability to have explosive speed. In fact, being a fast explosive and high endurance runner is probably BETTER than having 2-3 years of your standard "martial arts" training.
If I had to pick between the runner or the martial artist surviving that type of situation, assuming the runner has the right mentality that he will NOT stand around and fight, and that he has practice good preventive measures, I would put my money on the runner. Why ? Because a lot of martial artists often try and seek situations where they can apply their "training" and this usually gets them killed. If your mentally is "get the hell outta here FAST" and you have the physical attributes to run quickly and explosively, I believe you actually have a better chance than a guy who thinks "gotta use my kung fu" and stands around to slug it out.
Re:Carry a gun (Score:5, Interesting)
Re:its all about the accessories (Score:5, Interesting)
Six years of Karate works for me (Score:1, Interesting)
I'm not saying martial arts gives you the freedom to be a macho nitwit. If someone pulls a gun, ya just give him your wallet. But I've had several smaller incidents in the last two years. Each one ended well: no hospital for either party, no court case, but I came out on top.
It's been really hard - you're entering a completely different culture in martial arts. Cracked ribs, concussions, gigantic bruises and welts - they're just a given. If your body can take it, it's worth it.
Re:Feelings (Score:5, Interesting)
I go for the "jock" look... with my sporty back pack - and I'm not to much of a wimpy looking guy - I lug my gear around in this. I'm usually on campus when I'm moving my gear around - so I just look like another student. Who wants to steal my books anyway?
http://www.spireusa.com/products/ZM3.html
Thats the backpack I use right now...
As for the ipod I keep that in my pocket zipped up - black headphones, cellphone in pocket - ringer off. And just don't walk into dumb places...
I also have insurance on my laptop which is oh so nice for a scratch or incase i need to hit someone in the face with my laptop...
Keep all secure files on a usb-keychain which are encrpyted using personal vault
Re:Look Alert (Score:3, Interesting)
I don't dress to be scary or change my appearance for this reason at all, but I'm sure that my stature has something to do with this. I'm a tall and large person who spent many years training both in wrestling and judo. Based on my size alone, people would probably defer to me rather than confront me - so the effectiveness of the "walk around confidence and like you own everything" might vary from person to person.
I shave my head and have a goatee and usually wear all black. That, combined with my size - I walk down the street and other people excuse themselves from my way. I hope that this isn't out of fear but out of courtesy or respect that being large and confident may get you. When I'm at a bus stop or standing in line someone, I try to appear friendly and offer the occasional small-talk or make frequent eye contact with a pleasant nod or "how's it goin" when I pass people on the street, specifically because I am a bit self-concious about not wanting to come across as unfriendly and imposing to people - even strangers.
As far as knowing your neighborhood... I have no idea where you live, but in my city, you don't really know your neighbors. I have lived in the same apartment complex for five years and I don't know any of my neighbors event hough they're about 18 inches away. Previously, I grew up in this same neighborhood for 20 years in my parents' house and only knew one neighbor out of everyone. I couldn't tell you people's names let alone anything about them. I know some places in this country are still friendly and close-knit, but I've never seen that first hand.
Re:Get a gun (Score:3, Interesting)
FWIW... England and France both have higher crime rates than either Canada or America.
More info from England herself Here [telegraph.co.uk]
Re:Feelings (Score:5, Interesting)
Re:its all about the accessories (Score:4, Interesting)
Do I worry? Nope. Why not? Two reasons: My backpack w/ PowerBook, $200 CD player, and occasional pro audio gear has a hole the size of your fist in it and has seen it's fair share of hell; and b/c the last time somebody tried to strong arm me (as in, "Give me your money or else" w/ no weapon) I simply told them to go fuck themselves. They looked pissed, got in my face, then trundled off. I didn't mention the $100 in my wallet or the $500 in gear in my backpack. The time before that? (3 years earlier) I was with a friend who pulled out his wallet. I told him to put it away and told the guy I really wasn't interested in any charity work at the moment. He didn't laugh, got a touch insistant, then marched off. My friend had $200, ready to hand it over. Attitude is everything.
Hell, the approach I love is the panhandle/strong arm routine to which I reply "Dude, if I had a fucking dollar, I'd give it to you, but do I look like I've got any money?" and stroll off whistling.
Re:A gun? LONDON (Score:3, Interesting)
To prevent theft, of the gun.
Re:better (Score:2, Interesting)
I never got mugged (Score:4, Interesting)
Just talk to yourself a lot. Say "I got no hot water in the apartment, nobody wants to hire me, landlord wants his rent now, if one more person hassles me I am going to beat the crap out of them!" or something like that.
Also use a beaten up old bag to carry the laptop, PDA, iPod, and other stuff in. I suggest a visit to the Army Surplus store, a camouflage bag that looks big enough to carry a few guns or rifles might just do the trick. It is all, in perception. If they perceive you as a potential victim, they will mug you. If you look and act like a poor crazy person who might be carrying a gun or two in that bag, they leave you alone.
I suggest you use old beaten up headphones that are black, look like the ear covers are worn, and hide the iPod in a large pocket or in the bag, so it appears to be a cheaper cassette player or something. Never take it out in plain sight to complete the illusion.
The more annoying you are, the more likely they will leave you alone. Talk about how the government is out to get you, or some shadow group, or something. If you see the muggers, yell out that they are spies here to overthrow the government and draw attention to them. They might just run away once they see how crazy you are.
It works for me, not sure if it can work for you. Make sure you wear old clothes over good clothes and then change in a bathroom somewhere and put the old clothes into the bag.
Buy a used backpack (Score:4, Interesting)
I suggest buying a used backback or making one looked used - from a distance - like putting tape, etc on it. The less appealing it looks, the worth of the contents inside might also seem less tempting.
Also, hope the muggers don't read
Re:The Real Trick Is... (Score:3, Interesting)
Yes,confidence might help. A bit. If you happen to come across someone who is in serious need for his next fix, all your confidence will do you no good when in broad daylight, he pulls out a gun, puts it to your face and takes whaever you have got.
Stop making it sound as if only all people that get mugged lack confidence. For what is worth, I have never been mugged so far and I have lived and do work in some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in America, currently in Liberty City, Florida.
It helps that I do a ton of community work in these neighborhoods and people watch my back becasue they know me and appreciate my work.
Re:Maybe you are the problem (Score:2, Interesting)
I'm one of the guys who always says I can run faster scared than anyone else mad.
However, it is Memorial Day in the US. Its been 3 years since my father, who won a Purple Heart fighting on some God-forsaken hill in Korea, passed on. He didn't run. He was always smiling, humble, and, in his later years, just plain nuts (seriously, I mean the clinically diagnosed kind of crazy... maybe from the war... who knows).
Anyway, every right we have was won on the backs of many that came before us. They stood up against great enemies and huge personal risk. Maybe standing up and saying not this time to a thug gives tribute to that. Maybe after you do that, they won't be so quick to attack the next would-be victim.
I am against basically every law that restricts freedom, because I believe once liberties go away, they don't come back, and they were all paid for with blood. Why would I hand over my basic right to my own property to some thug?
But don't come and tell us that deadly weapons such as guns make for a more secure, less violent city
It is impossible to have a meaning conversation on this topic in this forum. In fact, I have no facts in front me, but, if you seriously wanted to learn, and not seek information to back up a pre-concieved notion, I would suggest a couple sources.
1. Crime statistics per capita of the various US states that allow concealed weapons, looking at periods before and after allowing concealed weapons.
2. Releative freemdom and corruption levels of countries as compared to private citizens rights and practical ability to own guns (if you look this up, please reply, as I would be seriously interested in the answer.
3. In countries that have outlawed gun ownership successfully, obviously gun crime goes down, because there are less guns. But what about assults with other weapons, other violent and non-violent crimes, looking for any not-so-predictable effects (for instance, to burglers feel safer robbing houses, and so rob more, because they know the owners can't shoot them?).
Anyway, I've always been curious about this topic, and I have yet to find a single study done by a group without some agenda (either pro-gun or anti-gun).
Re:Maybe you are the problem (Score:3, Interesting)
Many states in the U.S. have liberalized their concealed carry laws over the last 10 years or so, resulting in a significant decrease in crime in those states. Studies have shown about 1/3 less violent crime on average in such states.
Of people who get concealed carry permits, usually less than 1% later commit offenses. These people are usually well-educated and law-abiding citizens. The criminals also have guns though, even though, of course, it's illegal.
Re:Maybe you are the problem (Score:3, Interesting)
Criminals are called that because they do not obey the law. Therefore, if all law abiding citizens give up their weapons, those citizens will be without the tools of self-defense, whereas the criminals, who don't obey the law anyway, will keep their weapons for use in their crimes. Not only that, but it will embolden them, knowing that when they pull a gun on someone, that victim will not likewise pull a gun on them. However, if a criminal is fully aware that many people carry concealed weapons, that criminal might think twice before pulling a gun. And if that criminal doesn't think twice, that criminal will get shot, and Darwin's role will have played out.
Finally, I wanted to mention one interesting thing. You said that regardless of statistics, this is how people from various countries feel when they walk around in an area where half the people carry guns. Since you said this is regardless of statistics, it shows that you either do not have the data to prove what you say, or you have that data but choose to ignore it. Furthermore, you say you'd like the ratio between how often people defend themselves with a gun and how often gun accidents occur. Once again, you do not have the numbers.
Effectively, you are drawing conclusions from feelings and from ideas that are not backed up by facts, because, as I said, you either do not know the facts, or you choose to ignore them. This is not the scientific way to draw conclusions, nor is it the reliable way.
Oh, and by the way, regarding all those people who might feel unsafe walking in the streets of America, where half of the people carry guns according to you, I would like to say that this is a feature, not a problem: If they feel unsafe in our dangerous streets, they might pay closer attention to their surroundings, and by doing so, avoid getting shot by that half of the population that carries guns. (And did I forget to mention that while half of the people carry guns, nearly all of those people are law abiding citizens who do not shoot those who are afraid of guns? No, I didn't mention that yet.)
Guns are not the problem. The people who abuse them are.
An analogy you might understand: Computers are not the problem. Those who write viruses in them are.
Re:pretty simple really (Score:2, Interesting)
try this experiment: Give a marker to a 6 year old and tell him to write on you. I'll bet that you're going to come away with ink on you.
Now imagine how hard it would be to not get stabbed or sliced by an 18 year old punk, who might also have friends with him.
I concealed carry a 40 caliber firearm (Score:4, Interesting)
Ironically, the places with the most muggings are the places with the strictest anti-handgun laws. NY, DC, LA, Chicago, Detroit and with SF catching up fast. Oh, oh oh oh and I almost forgot one.... London.
"Shall issue" concealed carry laws are the BEST THING to happen to crime in this country within recent memory. The complete disarmament of law-abiding citizens in the UK is a terrible shame.
Weighing some options ... (Score:5, Interesting)
As an ex-military person, gun owner, concealed-carry permit holder, martial artist, and computer person
First, I would say that protecting your electronics is not a good reason for carrying a gun. Protecting your life when the electronics you carry puts your life at risk, is a good reason.
IANAL, but this is what I have learned from my gun courses.
The primary reason for carrying a firearm is almost always for self-defense, NOT defense of property. In many of the states in the US it is not acceptable to shoot someone simply because they are robbing you. In most instances there must be a threat of bodily harm and you must be unable to safely remove yourself, back away, or escape from the situation.
When a robber puts a gun/knife to your head and gives you instructions on how not to get hurt, the best solution is usually to comply. However, never "trust" a person who obviously doesn't care about your life. Just because you've handed over your goods does not guarantee that you won't get shot anyway. Escaping or using your firearm at the first opportunity are all viable options.
Regarding martial arts training -
My instructors have said that when defending your life, the primary goal is to neutralize the threat and/or remove yourself from the situation. Handing over material items to gain you that opportunity is totally acceptable.
Although I have trained for using Karate against an armed gun/knife opponent, the techniques are neither simple nor foolproof. One of our black-belts, although he disarmed his attacker and broke the guy's collarbone and wrist, still took a 22 slug in his thigh. To complicate the matter, the criminal later accused him of using excessive force!
That said, the best solution is to always avoid trouble.
The NRA recently opened up their Refuse To Be A Victim! seminars [nrahq.org] to men too. The seminars "provide participants with the information needed to minimize their chances of criminal attack." And no, they don't push guns as an easy solution. The seminar is inexpensive, and the web site offers some tips to minimize your chances of criminal attack. In London, I would seek out advice from local police stations, women's groups, colleges, and self defense instructors (ie. karate, etc) as to where similar education can be obtained.
And regarding the parent post
Re:May not be for you, but... (Score:3, Interesting)
If you find those unusual, I suppose you aren't ready to carry around a little container of zincofax [loebglebeonline.com] with you either.
mace spray (Score:2, Interesting)
I live in Canada, so I am not allowed to carry weapons (anyways, a small knife is all I'd take if it was legal). But even if I never really felt treathened, I opted for a mace spray in my pockets.
I bought one for my girlfriend too, since she works weekend evenings downtown.
Mace is legal, light, conceilable, cheap and VERY potent. I've seen it at work and it's painful just to look at.
The only thing I fear now is muggers attacking me with mace spray. I seriously fear it more than a knife.
(I hope I just didn't tip some bad guys off here)
Guns are for wimps -- How to be Invisible (Score:5, Interesting)
The way to do it is walk slow and make sure you see everyone before they see you. By doing this, you trigger a reflex in others to not see you. I can walk past anyone this way, even people I know who are looking for me. It's wierd how effective it is.
Also, with laptops, the bios is a good way to protect your stuff.
Most laptops bios p/w need to be factory reset. The best one being the IBM's that send a token from the bios to the hard drive. Even if the factory resets the motherboard p/w without getting ahold of you, because the thief is sophisticated enough to replace the chip (unlikely), the hard drive data is still encrypted and un-retrievable.
Finally, guns are for wimps.
If you pull a gun on someone you shouldn't be ready to use it, you use it!
BANG!
End of story... make it a clean kill.
If any moron pulled a gun on me, I'd kill 'em with it.
Like prophet said -- "learn to fight without the corruption of weapons."
Re:Feelings (Score:5, Interesting)
I did not do what he told me to do (Getting on the ground was not an option in my mind). I walked right up to the son of a bitch and got the best look I could, then I walked away. The guy with the gun had a partner who tried to beat me up, but I've been hit harder by girls on accident.
The point to this was, I didn't follow their script (and that's what it sounded like, a script from a real bad "gangsta" movie) and that's what kept me, my fiance, my iPod, and my money intact. The police told me I should have gone along and did what they told me, but two days before a woman was shot and killed during a mugging at the mall. She did exactly what they told her to, yet they killed her anyway.
I see no profit in bowing down to petty tyrants with little guns, who think they can steal what's mine. Or maybe I just read too much Batman as a kid.
Re:Ignorance is bliss... (Score:3, Interesting)
I guess my democratically-elected government, which has a tiered personal taxation system that has 0, 10, 25 and 40 percent tax bands (that provides me with a virtually-free education, a free health service, etc) and has a comprehensive human rights act in place must have moved out of Europe whilst I wasn't looking.
Either that or you're an troll living in the ignorance bliss that I previously mentioned.
Oh wait, we haven't moved an inch and we're still in Europe. I guess we know what that means then...
Actually useful tips that don't involve guns (Score:4, Interesting)
First - the machine. A tip - if you have DSL or cable at home, DON'T bring it. Set up with GOTOMYPC or something of the ilk, and simply session into your home machine from where you are going. For some, this is not reasonable, they are going to sit in a cafe or what have you. But for many, consider using a remote session.
Music - there are wireless headsets like the ones you might see at http://www.gadgetcentral.com/wm-we01_intro.html
Wear them. Put the unit in a pants pocket or jacket pocket completely from view.
Take a look at the latest in color blackberries and others. I saw a guy who had what I thought was this unit:
http://www.pdagold.com/articles/detail.asp?a=15
He had a pull out, snap together chicklet keyboard - and the thing had 802.11b wireless and he had an adapter to direct the display to an overhead projector that was in the office. It was brilliant, he hopped on the wireless network and had a 800x600 display of a remote computer via WTS in moments - with stuff he carried in his jacket pocket.
zerg (Score:5, Interesting)
-you're out of shape.
-you've got carpal tunnel.
-you're scared of people bigger than you.
Aikido will take care of all of those.
Re:You can't just SHOOT them (Score:2, Interesting)
I would never even reveal I had a gun unless I was about to use it and then only in defense of my life. As for someone who asks me to give them my property, I just tell them to "fuck off." However, most robbers usually pull a weapon and then make their demands, so that leaves you back at square one, protecting your life.
Anyway, I'm not likely to encounter such problems anytime soon since carjacking has pretty much died off in Florida (concealed carry to the rescue) and I dont travel on public transportation at this time. Pretty much burglars are my only concern and not much of one at that.
Re:Feelings (Score:5, Interesting)
I'm 6'2" tall, I have long black hair, a bullring style nose ring, a scuffed black leather jacket, a motorcycle and a visible knife clipped to my pocket.
I don't dress like I have money, and if I have to walk through a bad neighborhood, I make sure I look angry. My friends and I can walk past a gang, and they tend to part like the Red Sea.
I'm the scariest looking sysadmin I've seen in corporate america.
Re:An universal truth (Score:3, Interesting)
What's the difference?
I grew up. I look at people differently, and travel with an air of confidence. That makes a hell of a lot more of a difference than your zip code. Someone who's never actually been in a dangerous will simply never understand how much standing up straight and making sure people know you see everything going on around you makes.
Re:Feelings (Score:4, Interesting)
I'm a dorky little Asian guy. I carry 3 knives on me and have trained in Kali and Silat for over 15 years. Not much of a problem here, thanks.
BTW, I carry 3 knives now, but I used to carry only 2. A few years ago, I was the target of a mugging attempt. The fellow ran off with one of my knives stuck in his leg. Bummer. I liked that knife.
Re:Carry a gun (Score:3, Interesting)
If you carry a gun for self defense, you had better be prepared to kill someone. If you aren't, do yourself a favor and don't carry the weapon. If you are justified in using the weapon, by definition you are justified in using deadly force. I don't believe the poster advocated killing an attacker after the attack ended-that clearly is murder. But if you are a good shot (if you are carrying I sure hope you can shoot better than the general police force-it isn't hard) you are aiming for vital organs because it will end the threat the quickest. The attacker's fate is secondary to your own. Granted, it would suck to be judged by 12, but less than being carried by six....
AMEN ... (Score:3, Interesting)
Our society is WAY too tolerant of bad guys. We are taught to lay down everything in the face of thugs for insurance purposes. Just think if more people on th 9/11 flights were willing to fight instead of laying down like lambs to the slaughter.
The fact that people are EASY to rob encourages more people to become robbers. When robbers expect to be beat up half the time, they'll stop robbing.
What about... (Score:2, Interesting)
How about your self respect? While I concur that none of my material possessions are worth my life, my self respect is more than worth my life. It's worth any mugger's life as well. I have a gun permit and thankfully I have not had to use any of my guns for self defense, I would not hesitate to do so if my life were in danger.
LK
Re:Feelings (Score:3, Interesting)
Do you even know what a hydro-shock load is...?
Maybe I don't either but last I knew it was a hollow-point filled with either water or mercury (depending how lethal you wanted to be) and then sealed with wax or lead.
Test results with a
Normal solid round = entrance hole the size of a dime, exit the size of a nickel
Normal hollow-point = entrance hole size of a nickel, exit the size of a quarter
Filled hollow-point = board explodes
(Note: These loads are highly illegal in the USA and any other NATO country!)
Q: Anybody know another name for these?
Re:Carry a gun (Score:3, Interesting)
There are places in the US that have effectively repealed the 2nd amendment. The result has always been an *increase* in violent crime. The two states that have the lowest per capita gun crimes are Vermont and Alaska -- the two states that do not require any permit to carry a concealed handgun.
I personally carry a gun, everywhere that it is legal (and I avoid places where I can't legally carry my gun).
I am a Texas Certified Concealed Handgun License instructor. [tx-chl.com]
Re:A summary (and what I do) (Score:5, Interesting)
Pussy!!!! (Score:3, Interesting)
It all depends on physique and disposition. Though I'd rather ANYBODY fight back. If you give over your money, they might want EVEN MORE after that. This is especially relevant for women.
The fundamental quality of ALL predators is that they're all effectively cowards. They are seeking the person LEAST likely to fight back. Most will stop their hunt if you show that you're not easy prey.
So you must show that your not CONCERNED about your personal health. This is their edge. They will hurt you. Crazy people don't care about their health and will do anything. This doesn't fit their idea of a nice clean robbery.
A wasp will not kill you, but you don't go out of your way to handle wasps. The STING is enough.
The exception to this is real professional criminals. But these folks will do WHATEVER they are paid to do irregardless of wether you fight back.
So, you might as well fight back and lower the chances of not becoming a statistic. If you're injured
I can tell you, if someone tries to rob me, one of us is going to leave severely injured. I walk with that intention. And it's likely people see that in my face.
Finally, I'll leave you with the illusion from the Book of Five Rings. The man literally woke up every morning EXPECTING that he was going to die. That is how he freed himself. He had already let go of the Earth. He could commit himself to combat fully without fearing to lose his life.
On a long enough timeline EVERYONE's survival rate drops to ZERO!!! We are all going to die. The question is
Saw a guy on the subway with a 17" Powerbook (Score:3, Interesting)
Even better.. I was riding the 7 train home from Grand Central on Thursday and I saw a guy carrying a 17" powerbook closed under his arm like a notebook. He had headphones plugged in and was listening to it I think.
Talk about a big walkman. It's funny... nobody really worries about being mugged in most of NYC anymore.
Re: Shooting to wound (Score:3, Interesting)
Point of interest: According to a conversation I overheard between a cop and a regular citizen in Australia, there a cop can only pull his gun from its holster if he intends to fire it and MUST shoot to kill, not wound. I believe it is to make sure criminals know exactly where they stand and to stop police using a gun for harassment/intimidation purposes. If a holster seal is broken, there is a LOT of paperwork.
Any Aussie cops like to verify/clarify?
Concealed handgun (Score:5, Interesting)
Re:Stop caring... (Score:2, Interesting)
Re:No. Here's the perfect gadget bag: (Score:1, Interesting)
The 'sensitive single father type' has appeal for some.
My 'hit' rate with approaches from females in bars went up noticably when I had a wedding ring on my finger. I sort of understand how that might work, but am not really interested in that little attachment.
Re:A gun? LONDON (Score:2, Interesting)
Most British Police don't even have gun licenses. Some British police form Armed Response Units. They obviously have guns but the only place they are publicly visible is airports. No British foot police patrol our cities with guns. The Armed Response Teams are trained for just that and I'm sure they don't leave weapons in their car which sounds really insecure.
Armed response teams used to set off from police stations as required. Nowadays I think there are armed response teams driving around the capital in vans. They don't come out of their vans unless an armed response is actually needed - they are just there to make the response quicker. Police in a regular patrol car won't have guns.
As far as I'm concerned there's no good reason for anyone to have a gun in town. Or a pistol anywhere.
I am British, lived there most of my life.
External pockets and item recovery (Score:3, Interesting)
Because he had marked the iPAQ with his name and other distinguishing features, and because he took the time to visit a few pawn shops, he was able to get his iPAQ back and the guy who stole it even got busted for it.
Xix.
Clearly what we need here is a tech answer.... (Score:3, Interesting)
The intelligence and the guts of the device will stay at home, plugged into a docking station. You will carry the equivalent of a thin client - uniquely keyed to the the back-end which provides UI functionality only.
Someone steals your iiPod ? no use to them, the music is streaming from home and the bit you are carrying only costs $50 and is useless without the other part.
Going somewhere without the magic network? The two parts snap together, but the likelihood is that the places *with* the network will be the places (urban, high density) where you are most likely to be mugged.
We've already seen similar innovation in car radio market where the little coded front panel pops off.
OK, so it probably won't happen, but hey its a solution in the true Slashdot spirit n'est pas?
Re:Feelings (Score:3, Interesting)
Re:Feelings (Score:3, Interesting)
"No. The second you walk off, I'll cancel my cards and my phone, and the second you try to use them they'll show up stolen and you'll get arrested. And I'll have to go through the hassle of going to DMV, getting new cards, all that shit. Take the cash, walk away now and I won't even bother calling the cops on you."
Of course, the best advice is to just avoid areas where you're likely to get mugged.
Anecdotes (Score:4, Interesting)
Couple of anecdotes:
1) Got mugged when 16. Lost my jacket, watch and assorted to some bastards who followed me on the tram. Didn't recognize the danger signs. Now I see them (see 4).
2) On a couple of occasions, thugs have come up to me to beat me up (on principle). On most of the occasions, they end up my 'friends' as in they left me alone after inviting for a drink/conversation. I basically learned the gift of gab and changed their perception of me. If they thought I was a rich snob, I told them I hate my boss and life. If they thought I was from a certain town, part of town, I told them I was from somewhere completely else. If they wanted to hit me on principle, I told them a sad story about my girlfriend dumping me and my grandfather's dog dying. I only got the crap kicked out of me on one occasion, when I didn't have the time to talk.
3) After being beaten up, I got a telescoping baton. It is some scary shit and legal in many places. I got to use it a month after buying it. I was drinking in a park at night with friends. There were 4 of us. Suddenly two guys with stockings on their heads and a gun and a knife appeared and said "Your cellphones and your money". One second later, my stick was out and I was smacking the guy with the gun. Stupid. But I broke his arm. He ran off shouting that I was a fag. After getting his ass kicked and the stocking ripped from his head (I hit him a couple of times).
4) A while ago, I was walking around with my baton, chatting on my phone. Noticed some guys walking around after me. Tried to lose them. Unsucessfully. They surrounded me and told me to give them my phone. I said "No!" and ran shouting crazy talk. They didn't follow. If I had the baton I would have beat the shit out of them.
5) After that incident I haven't had much shit apart from a couple of situations in clubs or bars where some guy tried to go after my girl. I stare them down and tell them to go away. I'm not really scared.
Don't be scared. Don't make yourself into a hobo (do you really want your fear to change your appearance and lifestyle). Walk around like you belong somewhere. If accosted, talk back. If you've got protection, use it. If you don't, run. If you can't, give it up.
my technique (Score:2, Interesting)
Crazy Harmonica Guy (Score:3, Interesting)
and plays ONE NOTE. Polishes it, puts it away. Fifteen seconds later, he pulls it back out, plays two or three notes, looks thoughtful, and puts it away again. Repeat ad infinitum. At no point does he actually play a recognizable melody, or even more than a handful of notes, nor does he sound like he's practicing a particular technique, such as draw bends.
Nobody ever speaks to this guy, let alone gives him any trouble. If anyone looks him straight in the eyes, out comes the harmonica, and he plays his few notes as if he were laying a curse on the one looking at him.
Mal-2
Size (Score:1, Interesting)
Actually, Japanese men (especially the samurai classes, who could afford better food) were on average taller two hundred years ago than they were twenty years ago. Musashi Miyamoto, for example, was over 6' tall (Although that was more like 400 years ago). The average height of Japanese men diminished greatly during the late 19th century, a development which continued into the 1950's. Today, the average height among Japanese 20 year old men is 5'8".
Not that it matters to your point, though
oh fuck this (Score:1, Interesting)
Be Aware (Score:5, Interesting)
The secret? Be aware of what's going on around you, who's around you and walk with confidence.
Toys aren't what attract a mugger. It's ease of target. Plus toys aren't what a mugger really wants most of the time unless you have something they really want. It's cash. Your $2k laptop is worth much less hot. Cash is always worth cash.
Armour (Score:3, Interesting)
The tell is like "That's weird, that guy was holding the place up. Give me a moment while I call the cops." So the cops come, and ask buddy about the object stuck in his side. He's was a little amazed to find a knife which had been jabbed into his side, but stuck in the armour without coming near flesh.
I think chainmail should become standard equipment for late-night Sev drop-ins.
Crime and poverty go hand-in-hand (Score:3, Interesting)
There is a connection between poverty and crime. In many cases, mugging people is a rational choice (in economic sense, that is!).
And if you still get mugged, give all you have.
Two words: Rottweiler + Schutzhund (Score:4, Interesting)
Knives and guns have deterrence value, but do you really want to get into a knife fight or a gunfight? No thanks.
If you're concerned about crime, honestly, an attack trained dog works quite well (Hard to take it work with you, or on the subway, etc.).
Pro:
One: Oddly enough, a lot of criminals who are not afraid of being shot or stabbed have serious reservations against being bitten. Must be the mouth full of sharp teeth and intimidating appearance.
Two: Unlike a knife or a gun, it's next to impossible for a criminal to take the dog and use it against you. Really.
Con:
One: Insurance. Having an attack trained dog can prevent you from having home owners insurance due to liability concerns. Ditto for certain breeds. Shop around for an insurance provider that doesn't descriminate.
Two: Lawsuits. Having an attack trained dog can give you more grief than shooting the bastard if the dog is used to defend yourself. Best not to admit that the dog is attack trained (train it yourself or pay for training in cash). Memorize the following: "The dog was defending me against a perceived threat. Who knew that Fluffy, my loving Rottweiler, would chew his nuts off?"
The best bet is to not look like a victim. The dog is great deterence, though. Nasty looking folks part like the Red Sea when my wife and I are walking with our Doberman and Rottweiler. Friendliest dogs you would ever meet, but they don't know that.
Re:Feelings (Score:3, Interesting)
A good leather jacket is hard to cut through. If someone pulls a knife, they will have a harder time stabbing you. Motercyclists wear leather not for style, but beacuse when they have their accident (and the honest ones admit it is when) it is the best protection you can comfortably wear.
Not as good a midevil mail of some sort, but a lot more comfortable.