Jugging sounds like slang for something college students do on weekends. Or a bizarre exercise craze. But it’s actually how adults are getting robbed in broad daylight, all across the country. Criminals stake out banks, then follow people who withdraw cash and hit them at their next stop. And because a jug holds more than a mug, these high-dollar muggings are called “juggings.” Police across the country want to help you avoid the same fate. Here are their 3 main tips:

1. Stay sharp: trust your gut and watch for tails
2. Don’t make yourself a target for jugging
3. Drive smart and know when to get help

1- Stay sharp: trust your gut and watch for tails

“Stay alert. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is,” warns the Berlin, Connecticut Police Department. The department recently shared a set of tips for spotting jugging threats. Step one: be aware that crooks often hang around banks, pretending to be normal customers.

How do you tell who’s who? Sgt. Wiley Adams of the Scottsdale Police spells it out: “More times than not we’re looking for out-of-state license plates, groups of individuals sitting in a car intently watching the bank or maybe people who don’t appear to be doing normal business.”

The Berlin PD says, “Watch for tails. Note if any cars follow you out of the lot.” If you feel like someone’s behind you, don’t brush it off. As Sgt. Adams puts it: “We want them (victims) to pay attention to their surroundings.”

2- Don’t make yourself a target for jugging

“The individuals are deliberately choosing financial institutions,” says Sgt. Adams. “There’s a method to their madness.”

What triggers an attack? “You walk out with an envelope or bank bag and return to your vehicle.” That’s the green light. Berlin PD advises: “Be discreet. Don’t flash your cash. Stash it immediately.” Keep your cash hidden in an inner pocket or bag—out of sight, out of mind.

Also: “Limit distractions. No phones or headphones at the ATM.” If your head’s down or your ears are blocked, you might not spot someone clocking your every move.

3- Drive smart and know when to get help

Juggers aren’t looking to strike at the bank—they’re waiting until you’re alone. “And then you drive somewhere else maybe another retail location, a home, anything like that,” says Adams.

“If they’re being followed or they feel like they’re not safe, they need to call 911,” he continues. “Or head to the nearest police station.” If you’re unsure, don’t guess—just say you’re “seeing some suspicious behavior and ask to send an officer.” Adams adds: “We’re more than happy to do that.”

Jugging only works if you’re oblivious. So stay sharp. Trust your gut, watch for tails, and don’t fumble around in public with a fistful of Benjamins. If something feels off, call the cops or drive straight to the nearest station—don’t try to outsmart a stalker. See Sergeant Adams’ advice for yourself in the video embedded below: