How to Recognize Suspicious Behaviour

Being able to recognize suspicious behaviour is an important life skill that can help protect you, your loved ones, and your community. This guide will help you understand what to look for and how to respond appropriately.

Understanding Suspicious Behaviour

Suspicious behaviour doesn't mean someone is definitely dangerous, but certain patterns warrant attention. The key is to trust your instincts while avoiding unfair profiling.

Common Signs of Suspicious Behaviour

In Public Spaces

Watch for individuals who:

Appear nervous or anxious without apparent reason
Avoid eye contact while watching others intently
Wear inappropriate clothing for the weather or situation
Carry unusual items or bags in strange ways
Loiter without purpose in one area for extended periods
Take photos or videos of security features or exits

In Residential Areas

Be aware of:

Unfamiliar vehicles parked for long periods
People looking into car windows or homes
Individuals testing doors or windows
Someone asking unusual questions about neighbors' schedules
People carrying items from homes at odd hours

Online and Digital Spaces

Red flags include:

Requests for personal information
Pressure to move conversations off-platform
Inconsistent stories or details
Requests for money or financial help
Reluctance to video chat or meet in person

The "See Something, Say Something" Approach

What to Do

Stay calm - Don't panic or confront the person
Observe carefully - Note physical descriptions and actions
Move to safety - Create distance if you feel threatened
Report appropriately - Contact security or authorities

What to Report

When reporting, include:

Location - Specific address or landmark
Description - Physical characteristics, clothing
Behaviour - What specifically concerned you
Direction - Where the person went
Time - When you observed the behaviour

Situational Awareness Tips

The Color Code System

Use this awareness scale:

White - Unaware of surroundings (avoid this)
Yellow - Relaxed but alert (ideal daily state)
Orange - Specific potential threat identified
Red - Threat is real and action required

Improving Your Awareness

Practice these habits:

Scan your environment when entering new spaces
Identify exits and escape routes
Notice who's around you without staring
Trust your gut - instincts are often right
Limit distractions like phones in unfamiliar areas

Specific Scenarios

At Work

Watch for:

Coworkers expressing violent intentions, even as "jokes"
Unusual interest in security protocols
Bringing weapons or threatening items
Sudden behavioral changes
Stalking or harassment of colleagues

While Traveling

Stay alert for:

People watching you at ATMs
Distraction theft techniques
Fake taxi drivers or tour guides
People following you
Approaches from strangers with offers that seem too good

For Parents

Teach children about:

Stranger danger basics
Trusted adults they can approach
Online safety and privacy
Speaking up when uncomfortable
Safe places to go if they feel threatened

Avoiding Bias and Profiling

Important Considerations

Don't judge based on appearance, race, or religion alone
Focus on behaviour, not identity
Consider context - strange behaviour might have innocent explanations
Avoid confrontation - let authorities handle investigation

What's NOT Suspicious

Normal activities that should not raise alarm:

Speaking a foreign language
Wearing religious attire
Taking photos as a tourist
Looking lost or confused
Having different customs or habits

Responding to Threats

If You Feel in Danger

Trust your instincts - Leave if uncomfortable
Go to crowded areas - Safety in numbers
Make noise - Draw attention if threatened
Call for help - Don't hesitate to dial emergency services
Fight if necessary - As a last resort, defend yourself

After an Incident

Report to authorities immediately
Write down details while fresh
Preserve any evidence
Seek support if traumatized

Building a Safer Community

Everyone can contribute to safety:

Join or start a neighborhood watch
Get to know your neighbors
Report suspicious activity
Share safety information
Support local community programs

Conclusion

Recognizing suspicious behaviour is about staying aware without living in fear. By understanding what to look for and how to respond appropriately, you can help protect yourself and contribute to community safety.

Remember: It's always better to report something that turns out to be innocent than to ignore something that could have been prevented.

In case of emergency, always contact local emergency services immediately. This article provides general guidance and should not replace professional security advice.