9 Levels of Pickpocketing: Easy to Complex | WIRED

WIRED・2 minutes read

Ben Sidman breaks down pickpocketing into nine levels of complexity, focusing on techniques like using distractions, manipulating attention, and building rapport to execute successful steals. Each pickpocketing attempt is unique, showcasing the continuous learning process and skill required in the art of pickpocketing.

Insights

  • Ben Sidman breaks down pickpocketing into nine levels of complexity, each requiring different techniques and skills, emphasizing the intricate nature of theatrical pickpocketing.
  • Pickpocketing involves a deep understanding of human behavior, utilizing distractions, precise timing, and environmental cues to successfully execute thefts, showcasing the strategic and psychological aspects involved in this art form.

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Recent questions

  • What is theatrical pickpocketing?

    Theatrical pickpocketing involves using distraction, misdirection, and sleight of hand techniques to steal items from individuals in a performance setting, such as a stage or street show.

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Summary

00:00

"Ben Sidman's Theatrical Pickpocketing: Nine Levels"

  • Ben Sidman is challenged to break down pickpocketing in nine levels of complexity, focusing on theatrical pickpocketing.
  • Level one involves using an object as cover, like a release form, to distract and steal from a person, known as the chump.
  • Level two hides the motion of the steal by letting the mark's own movement aid in the theft.
  • Level three focuses on stealing ID badges, requiring hiding intent and openly touching the item being stolen.
  • Level four involves hiding the sensation of the steal by using the environment to provide cover and employing techniques like fanning.
  • Level five details stealing a smartwatch, emphasizing building rapport and trust to manage the broad attentional focus of the spectator.
  • Level six, the traditional watch steal, involves manipulating attention through various techniques and executing the steal with precision timing.
  • Level seven, the pants pockets steal, involves feeling for items in pockets and using techniques like tapping the poke to steal wallets.
  • Level eight, the inside jacket pocket steal, is complex due to the proximity to the subject's chest and the level of physical contact required for the theft.

13:04

Mastering the Art of Pickpocketing

  • Pickpocketing techniques involve identifying the "pit" pocket and using distractions like Fanning to steal items, exploiting the brain's overload response to avoid detection.
  • Stealing a wallet from an upper pocket involves executing a dip while diverting attention, showcasing the complexity and skill of pickpocketing.
  • The process of stealing a necktie requires assessing the knot type, executing the theft with precision, and distracting the target effectively to successfully remove the tie.
  • Each pickpocketing attempt is unique, influenced by the target's attire, behavior, and environment, showcasing the continuous learning process in the art of pickpocketing.
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