apollo robbins has earned a reputation as "The best pickpocket in the world". He is a mix of actor, speaker and consultant who has perfected the art of distraction to surprising levels. Its ability to steal watches, wallets and other objects without people noticing has made him a fascinating figure in the world of illusionism and human behavior.
A master of distraction
In his famous TED talk, Robbins explained how the human brain manages attention and how pickpockets use this information to carry out their work. At the conference, he made a live demo in which he manipulated a volunteer's perception by stealing several objects from him without his realizing it. His ability to redirect the public's attention is so effective that even security analysts and neuroscientists have studied his techniques.
The most commonly used pickpocket techniques
Although Robbins uses this knowledge for entertainment purposes, real pickpockets use similar methods in everyday situations to take advantage of people. Distractions of the environment. Below are some of the most common techniques used around the world:
1. The handshake and physical contact
Pickpockets often take advantage of the physical contact to generate false trust and, at the same time, distract the victim. While shaking hands or touching someone's arm, they can use their other hand to remove a wallet or watch without the person noticing. This type of scam distraction techniques They are widely used in the field of illusionism.
2. The plug technique
This method is very common in Public transportation. It involves one or more criminals surrounding the victim in a crowded place, such as the entrance to a subway car or on an escalator. They take advantage of the moment when the person is trapped between them to steal their wallet or mobile phone.
3. The pull method
One of the most aggressive methods. The thief approaches running or on a bicycle and snatches the bag or the victim's backpack through carelessness. This type of theft is common in cities with a high density of tourists.
4. The map or paper trick
Someone approaches the victim with a map or a newspaper and places it on their cell phone or wallet while pretending to ask for directions. Then, in the middle of the conversation, they pick up the map along with the stolen item and disappear without the victim noticing. This deception is very similar to that used in other scams. persuasion techniques.
5. The crutch or distraction with clothing
In some situations, pickpockets cover their hand with a jacket or scarf to hide what they are doing. This is especially common at train stations. metro or bus, where they are surrounded by people.
How to protect yourself from pickpockets
Although pickpockets perfect their skills skills There are several precautions that can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft:
- Avoid using back pockets: Wallets and cell phones should be kept in inside pockets or zippered bags.
- Use anti-theft bags: There are backpacks with hidden zippers and cut-resistant materials.
- Be alert in crowded places:Public transport, markets and tourist streets are the preferred places for pickpockets.
- Divide valuables: Do not carry all your money and important documents in one place.
If you ever meet Apollo Robbins in person, hold on to your wallet. Fortunately, his intention is not to steal, but to educate us on how our perception and attention work.
