When Good Deeds Make You Vulnerable to Criminals

There was a time when we were all taught to look out for our fellow man, lend a helping hand, do unto others as we'd have them do unto us. All these aphorisms have almost gone by way of the dinosaur. It's very unfortunate, but being a good Samaritan in today's society just isn't always a good or practical idea anymore. A person can find themselves in a very dangerous situation, maybe even so far as to lose their life, all because they thought to do a kind deed for a fellow human being.

When Young Women are Vulnerable

It is a well documented fact that certain serial killers used ploys of helplessness to gain the sympathy and trust of unsuspecting passersby, especially young women. Women became vulnerable to their charm, quick wittedness and seemingly, unfortunate circumstance. Once the woman's guard is down, they can be pushed into the vehicle of the perpetrator, never to be seen alive again.

When the Elderly Are Vulnerable

Often times you hear of the elderly, trying to help out those in their own neighborhood, only to be robbed and bludgeoned to death, all for the sake of a few dollars. These elderly, who most probably grew up in simpler times, when neighbor actually did help neighbor, now find themselves in the most precarious of situations.

They might even help out others due to their own fears, for it's easier to hand over money than to even attempt defending themselves should a confrontation arise. Often times, they even lose out in that respect as well.

Strangers on the Street

As well as the more serious crimes, even petty crimes are so commonplace that they don't even make the evening news anymore but are just as invasive and dangerous. Someone can walk up to you and ask you for the time, or for spare change to buy themselves a coffee, only to grab your purse or wallet or packages that you might be carrying.

They may even want something on your person, such as a jacket, iPod, what have you, all because they saw something you had that they either wanted for themselves, or want in hopes of selling for drug money.

When Children Become Vulnerable

Most unfortunate of all, are young children, who are abducted all because they are so trusting and giving. Predators will use tactics, such as asking for their assistance in helping to find a lost puppy.

Of course, this is just another ploy in the arsenal of the criminal mind. A young child, trying to do a good deed, as they are so often taught by their parents or Sunday school teachers. Unfortunately, this might have put their own little lives in jeopardy by being so caring and trusting.

Vulnerability on the Internet

Even the Internet is being used for criminal activity. Criminals will prey on your sense of sympathy and gullibility or maybe even greed, to gain access to your bank account or credit card information. Worse yet, the Internet is often used to deceptively lure young, unsuspecting children away from the safety of their homes and family.

The Criminal Element

This is only a small fraction of the examples on how one can be so vulnerable to the criminal element. Criminals are forever thinking up new ways to take advantage of others. There are no limits to what they can conjure up in their devious thoughts. They are always one or two steps ahead of the law and the awareness of the average law-abiding citizen.

Exercising Caution

No one is immune to such criminal acts but one doesn't have to be a victim. Always be on your guard, be aware of your surroundings, stay educated on what is going on in the world around you. Educate your children. Listen to your inner voice. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't.

It's unfortunate not to trust our fellow man, but sadly, in this day and age, it's better to be on guard first, then allow your trusting nature to follow, only when you are absolutely certain. It is far better to be overly cautious than to have regrets later on.