The Israeli Guide to Personal Security

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Israeli intelligence and military training is based on principles of situational awareness, de-escalation, and tactical self-defense. These same principles are taught in civilian contexts by security firms and through the Israeli self-defense system, Krav Maga. 

The core principle: Awareness

Rather than focusing on a long list of "dos and don'ts," the core of Israeli-derived security is cultivating constant awareness to assess threats and prevent an incident before it happens. 

Maintain situational awareness

• Be mindful of your surroundings. Do not be distracted by your phone or other devices.
• While walking, be aware of people and cars around you. Notice if anyone appears to be following you or if a vehicle is driving erratically.
• When using public transportation, keep track of your belongings and report suspicious behavior.
• Use ATMs during the day and in well-lit, populated areas.
• Avoid large public demonstrations or protests, as these can quickly turn violent. 

Cultivate a "low profile"

• Avoid looking like an obvious tourist or someone with wealth to steal. Leave expensive jewelry, watches, or other valuables at home.
• Carry your wallet, phone, and other belongings in an inconspicuous bag. Avoid flashy bags or backpacks that might attract attention.
• Dress to blend in with your surroundings. Buy local, common items instead of standing out.
• Avoid discussing your travel plans or personal information with strangers or in public. 

Managing potential threats

Pre-planning and evasion

• Before leaving your home or hotel, plan your route and know where you are going. Have alternatives prepared, especially in high-risk areas.
• If you find yourself in a dangerous area, leave immediately.
• Trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, get out of it.
• In a situation of civil unrest or military action, have an exit plan and follow local authorities' instructions. 

Concealment and deception

While typically used in intelligence operations, the principle of obscuring your identity can apply to personal safety.

• Change your appearance: Altering your clothing or adding/removing a hat or glasses can be enough to evade a potential observer on the street.
• Adapt your behavior: Change your manner of walking or your general demeanor to avoid drawing attention. 

Last resort: Self-defense

The Israeli self-defense system, Krav Maga, is rooted in the principle of maximum efficiency in minimal time. It is a system for real-world scenarios, not for sport. 

Krav Maga principles

• Intercept the attack: Block or divert an incoming strike. Instead of opposing an aggressor's strength, you use their own momentum against them.
• Attack vulnerable areas: Aim for soft spots and pressure points on your attacker's body.
• Neutralize the threat: Use quick and decisive moves to create distance and ensure your attacker is no longer a threat.
• Use available objects as weapons: Items like pens, keys, or fire extinguishers can be used to defend yourself.
• Close the distance: If an attacker gets too close, use your body to shut down their ability to strike effectively. 

Civilian application

While trained operatives have advanced skills, civilian Krav Maga training focuses on the simple, practical applications to survive a street encounter. Learning basic self-defense moves, CPR, and first aid is also recommended. 

And from the MIT/Israel alliance :

Awareness

Be alert to the fact that, even when you take precautions, residual risks exist. Make security awareness a habit by incorporation the following steps in your daily routine:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Before leaving your housing, decide on the route you will take.  In certain locations it may be necessary to review several safe routing options.
• When using public transportation, be aware of your personal belongings.
• Always look out for strangers waiting by your house and office, strangers and / or cars following you as well as other unusual incidents.
• Do not use ATMs at night, even when it seems no one is around.
• Avoid any situations where you may become isolated and at risk. Use local knowledge and guidance for high-risk locations and activities. Use such advice in conjunction with your own independent assessment

Low Profile

• Criminals normally target an individual because that person has come to their attention for some reason. It is fundamental that individuals should attract as little attention to themselves as possible. These are some simple rules:
• Do not walk about distracted by your personal electronic devices.
• Personal equipment such as laptops, cameras and telephones should be carried in bags/backpacks and not exposed to others.
• Avoid accessories that can identify you as student traveler from another country such as branded backpacks.  Purchase locally available and commonly used items to better blend in.  Don’t carry anything you cannot replace or should have fully backed up in order to recover any lost data.
• Avoid overt signs of wealth, such as expensive watches, jewelry, iPhones, tablets, etc.
• Don’t carry too much cash.
• Do not discuss details of your work or itinerary with individuals not known to you.  Do not discuss them publically.
• Ensure, as far as possible, that personal information is properly safeguarded

Communication

In an event of an incident, your safety may depend upon how effectively you are able to maintain communications with your support elements. Make sure you:

• Always test your cell phone; keep it fully charged, and consider carrying an extra charger with you.
• Carry a hard copy of your emergency contact details.