Glossary
1. allora
"Then," in Italian. A multipurpose interjection used as "well," "so," and "you see" are used in English.
2. bait-and-switch
In an illicit sale on the street, you think you're buying one thing (phone, video camera, etc.), but walk away unknowingly with a swapped package, in which you later find worthless weight.
3. baksheesh
A tip, gratuity, donation, or bribe, in India and the Middle East.
4. bare handed
To pick a pocket or purse without the cover of a tool, such as a coat or bag.
5. blocker
The pickpocket's accomplice, whose function is to prevent passersby from observing the theft.
6. blockers
A blocker is the pickpocket's accomplice, whose function is to prevent passersby from observing the theft.
7. broad tosser
One who throws or manipulates the cards in a game of three-card monte.
8. bunco
scam, con game, or swindle.
9. Carabinieri
Italian police officers.
10. con
From the word confidence; to trick, cheat, swindle, or defraud a victim out of money or property, after first gaining his confidence.
11. dead work
Illicitly obtained identity documents including a driver’s license, Social Security card, and a credit card which has been canceled. Also see Set of works.
12. dip
A pickpocket, also called a cannon, wire, pick, whiz. To dip is to pick a pocket (or purse).
13. fanning
Lightly and surreptitiously touch a person in order to determine the location of his or her valuables.
14. fence
One who deals in stolen goods.
15. grift sense
The ability to recognize and/or pull off cons, swindles, and scams.
16. gull
A victim, a dupe.
17. kick-the-poke
To reposition a wallet for easier extraction.
18. klepsimo:
Pickpocket, in Greek.
19. lone wolf
One who works alone, without partner or accomplice.
20. lush worker
One who robs sleeping drunks in public.
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