How to Pickpocket
Knowing how to pickpocket is more than just knowing how to grab someone's wallet and run off with it. You need to understand how to pickpocket and not get caught.
You should try to pickpocket people in areas where there are crowds of confused people. The more distracted people are, the less likely that they will notice you absconding with their wallets and purses. Airports are filled with people who are confused and rushed. However, there is a good deal of security in an airport. Train stations and busy bus terminals generally have less security than airports and are a good place for the first time pickpocket to test his skills. Crowded shopping areas also make good pickpocketing grounds. Around the holidays, customers are so loaded with bags they are particularly vulnerable to theft.
Although it is possible to pickpocket alone, many pickpockets work in teams. Pickpockets in groups use techniques where one pickpocket robs an individual while the other distracts that person. One such technique takes place on the escalator. Two members of the group boisterously take pictures of each other at the top of the escalator. While eyes are focused on their antics, someone further down the escalator is reaching into purses and bags. If your group is large enough, you can also use people as look-outs to watch for any police.
If you do decide to team up with other individuals, make sure that they are people that you trust completely. Never commit any crimes with someone you do not know well. He might even turn out to be an undercover cop. It is better to commit crimes by yourself than to increase your chances of being caught.
Once you have a purse or wallet in your hand, sort through it and toss any incriminating evidence. If you want to minimize your risk of getting caught, throw away anything that is not cash right away. If the police search you and find stolen ids or credit cards on your person, there is no way to defend yourself from criminal charges. If they only find cash, you have a much better chance of getting away with the crime. Throw away the wallet or purse in a restroom so that no one sees you disposing of the stolen goods. You should also spend a little of the cash, so you have an excuse for being in the mall if you are questioned.
Criminal activity is inherently risky. If you get caught, you risk going to prison. If you decide later that you want to stop living a life of crime, a criminal record could keep you from getting a good job. Decide if you can live with the consequences if you get caught. It is easy to know how to be a pickpocket but it can be hard to get away with the crime.
