How Does Pickpockets Work? All you need to know

If you are visiting a new place for tourism or vacation, you should have an idea of how pickpockets work. Pickpockets blend seamlessly into any crowd, from well-dressed businessmen to unassuming tourists.

They’re chameleons, adapting their appearance and tactics to suit the situation. In the 1700s and 1800s, orphans, street children, and the poor were sometimes apprenticed to pickpockets.

In recent times, pickpockets now work as a team with one distracting while another lifts the loot. But how does pickpockets work, exactly? This article reviews the act of pickpocketing either for theatrical or knowledge purposes, discover all you need to know about pickpocketing in the 21st century.

What is PickPocketing?

Pickpocketing is not just a petty crime. Organized gangs can steal millions in a single event, targeting tourists and high-value events. It is the act of stealing from a person’s pocket or bag without them noticing.

Pickpockets are skilled thieves who often work in crowded areas, such as public transportation, tourist attractions, and busy streets. They use a variety of techniques to distract their victims and make the theft as quick and easy as possible.

Bumping into the victim, creating a diversion, and pretending to help the victim with something are some of the most prominent techniques they employ to pickpocket unsuspecting individuals.

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How Can I Pickpocket Someone?

Pickpocketing is not a petty crime. Stealing from others is not only harmful but also illegal. However, for theatrical and magic performances, POWA Academy offers an online course that explains in detail how to pickpocket.

The course allows you to learn at your own pace and there are a range of different modules that you can choose from depending on your skill level.  James Brown, the author of “Secrets of Pickpocketing”, who has over 20 years of experience, is willing to share his knowledge about how to become a successful pickpocket.

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How to pickpocket in Starfield

Pickpocketing skills can help you in your home gameplay, too. Aside from magic shows, stealing keys from enemies in past Bethesda games is satisfying.

To pickpocket in Starfield, you must have the Theft skill. After unlocking Rank 1 of this skill, you can approach an NPC while sneaking and interact with them (A on Xbox) to look in their inventory.

• Explore the vast open world: Starfield boasts a sprawling galaxy to discover, with diverse planets, alien creatures, and hidden secrets waiting to be found.
• Embark on exciting quests: Follow captivating storylines, unravel mysteries, and make choices that shape your Starfield experience.
• Customize your character: Craft your unique persona with a vast array of skills, weapons, and equipment.
• Build your spaceship: Design and personalize your vessel, ready to conquer the cosmos.
• Engage in thrilling space combat: Take on pirates, alien threats, and other challenges in epic dogfights.
• Forge alliances and rivalries: Interact with various factions, make friends, and navigate the complex political landscape of the galaxy.
• Immerse yourself in the rich lore: Delve into Starfield’s captivating story, uncovering its secrets and unraveling its mysteries.

How To PickPockets in BG3

BG3 stands for Baldur’s Gate 3, a highly anticipated role-playing game developed by Larian Studios and set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe.

To pick pockets in BG3, approach your target quietly and click on them to pick their pockets. You can select the items you want to steal, and a sleight-of-hand dice roll will occur behind the scenes to determine if you’re successful in your attempt.

The difficulty of the sleight of hand check is directly proportional to the value of the item you are trying to steal.

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How Do pickpockets work?

Pickpocketing is a cunning art, practiced for centuries by nimble fingers and sly minds. These thieves operate in plain sight, weaving a web of distraction and misdirection to snatch your valuables before you even blink.

Here are common techniques pickpockets use in operating:

#1. Distraction is King

A skilled pickpocket’s greatest weapon is distraction. They might bump into you “accidentally,” create a sudden commotion, or even engage you in a friendly conversation, all while their accomplice dips into your unguarded pocket.

Common tricks used to achieve distraction include:

• The Bump: This classic maneuver involves bumping into the victim, often from behind, while simultaneously lifting their wallet or phone.
• The Sandwich: In crowded areas, pickpockets might work in pairs, sandwiching the victim between them. One will engage the victim in conversation, while the other reaches into their pockets from behind.
• The Spill: A spilled drink or dropped object can be a great cover for a pickpocket. As the victim helps clean up, the thief can make off with their belongings.

#2. Sleight of Hand Houdini

Forget bulky pockets and bulging wallets. Pickpockets are masters of concealment, using specially crafted tools and hidden compartments to vanish your valuables in the blink of an eye.

Razor-thin blades can slice through pockets unnoticed, while specially designed clips and pouches can hold a surprising amount of loot.

#3. Body Language Tells

They’re not just looking for valuables; they’re reading you. From your posture and gaze to the way you carry your belongings, pickpockets glean valuable information about your vulnerabilities.

A slumped posture might indicate an easy target, while a tightly clutched bag could signal alertness.

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How do pickpockets steal so sneakily?

There are many methods pickpockets employ to steal sneakily. During theatrical plays, magician pickpockets target someone who appears to be ready to have fun. To achieve this, you must learn to read body language.

Afterward, position yourself to the victim. With James Brown’s technique, the simple magic routines will guide you.

Next, gently remove the item from the person. Remember to use a smooth and fluid motion. Some possible ways to achieve this include using a tool like tongs, slicing the pocket with a razor or scissors, or crimping the pocket lining.

Lastly, place the item in your pockets and reveal it in a fun and interesting way.

What Do Pickpockets Steal Most?

Generally, pickpockets focus on items that are easy to steal, high in value, and less noticeable.

According to Borbano, pocketology 101 reveals these thieves look for the four corners of it in your trouser pocket, or for the weight and bulk of it that ruins the fall of a nicely-cut jacket to identify what valuable they are making away with.

Below are some of the items pickpockets can easily grab and run:

1. Wallets: The classic pickpocket’s loot, wallets hold cash, credit cards, IDs, and other valuables. They’re readily accessible in pockets or bags and can be quickly palmed or hidden.
2. Phones: Smartphones are high-value items, sought for their resale value, personal data, or even just to make calls. Their size and smooth surfaces make them easier to snatch than bulkier items.
3. Passports and travel documents: Essential for international travelers, these documents are valuable for their identity information and travel privileges. Pickpockets might target tourists or those entering crowded areas like airports.
4. Cash: While credit cards are attractive, readily available cash is still a quick grab for pickpockets. They might target pockets, purses, or even money belts if they’re not properly secured.
5. Jewelry: Valuable rings, necklaces, and bracelets can be tempting targets, especially if they’re worn visibly. Pickpockets might use distraction tactics to get close and snatch them unnoticed.
6. Keys: While not as valuable, keys can be inconvenient to lose and can grant access to homes or vehicles.
7. Tickets: Concert, event, or travel tickets can be valuable for resale or access to exclusive events.
8. Small electronics: Earbuds, headphones, or portable chargers can be attractive for their resale value or personal use.

How do you know if someone is pickpocketing you?

Recognizing pickpocketing attempts can be tricky, as these thieves often operate with stealth and distraction. If you are in a crowded place or a tourist location, you should be careful with someone standing uncomfortably close, who could be trying to access your pockets or bags.

When you see someone maintaining unnatural eye contact with you, be careful. It could be a way to distract you while their accomplice makes a move.

A seemingly accidental bump or brush could be a cover for a quick pocket dip. So, be on alert when there is a sudden bump. While friendly conversations can be engaging, you should be careful when one strikes up a friendly conversation or offers unsolicited help.

It is often a way to get close and access your belongings. This covers someone asking for directions or information with excessive urgency. They could be trying to distract you. Simply move away from the suspected pickpocket and secure your belongings by holding them close, zipping pockets, or using a money belt.

Which pocket is the hardest to pickpocket?

Borbano opines that a fat wallet protruding from a back pocket is a magnet to a pickpocket. He posits that the safe pocket is the tightest one in your trousers or an inside jacket pocket.

Pockets with inner zippers are also a great place to store your valuables. Worn around the waist and hidden under clothing, money belts are virtually invisible to pickpockets and offer excellent security for cash and important documents. Hence, they are one of the most secure spots to pick by pick pockets.

Other moderately and least secure pockets include:

• front trouser pockets
• Small, snug pockets
• Crossbody bags
• Back pockets
• Open top bags
• Loose pockets

How to avoid pickpockets

To avoid pickpockets, you must outsmart them, especially when you are traveling to a location you are not so conversant with.

Secure your belongings with the money belt or other methods that work for you. Below is all you need to know about how to avoid pickpockets and not fall victim:

#1. Be a Vigilant Traveler:

Being vigilant as you travel is an essential tactic on how to avoid pickpockets. The tips below will guide you:

• Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore your intuition.
• Scan your surroundings: Pay attention to people around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Beware of distractions: Don’t get caught up in conversations or fake emergencies.
• Keep your valuables close: Use money belts, zipped pockets, or hidden compartments.
• Avoid displaying wealth: Don’t flash cash or expensive jewelry.
• Travel light: Carry only what you need, and avoid bulky bags.
• Be wary of “bumping”: This classic tactic can create a distraction for the theft.
• Watch for teamwork: Pickpockets often work in pairs, so be aware of multiple people.

#2. Secure Your Belongings:

Securing your belongings is a valid way to avoid pickpockets. The following tips will guide you.

• Use a money belt: This is the safest way to carry cash and valuables.
• Invest in secure bags: Choose bags with zippers and secure closures.
• Lock your zippers: Use small luggage locks to deter pickpockets.
• Don’t leave bags unattended: Even for a moment.
• Keep your phone close: Don’t leave it in your back pocket or on a table.
• Keep copies of important documents: Separate them from the originals.

#3. Travel Smart:

To avoid pickpockets, do the following:

• Research your destination: Know the areas with higher pickpocket activity.
• Dress modestly: Avoid flashy clothing or jewelry.
• Blend in with the locals: Don’t look like a tourist.
• Be cautious in public transportation: Keep your valuables close and secure.
• Report suspicious activity: Tell authorities if you see someone suspicious.
• Learn some basic phrases in the local language
• Take a self-defense class: This can give you confidence and skills to deter thieves.
• Trust your travel companions: Look out for each other and be extra vigilant.

Are pickpockets always male?

No! Pickpockets come from all walks of life, regardless of gender. While it’s true that historical stereotypes often associate pickpocketing with males, the reality is far more diverse.

In modern times, female pickpockets are just as prevalent and skilled as their male counterparts. According to Barbano, female pickpockets have a few additional super-tactile methods not available to the average male thief.

To stay safe, it’s always wise to be vigilant in crowded areas, keep your valuables secure, and trust your gut instinct if you feel something is off. These practices apply to everyone, regardless of the potential perpetrator’s gender or background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

References

• Geriwalton.com – Pickpockets and Pickpocketing in the 1700 and 1800s
• Witness the magic.com – How To Pickpocket – A Guide For Magicians and Entertainers

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