Serial killers employ various methods to find their victims, often targeting individuals who are vulnerable or easy to isolate. Here are some common strategies:
Targeting Specific Groups:
- Sex workers: Serial killers may prey on sex workers due to their isolated work environment and anonymity.
- Runaways and homeless individuals: These groups often lack stable housing and support networks, making them more vulnerable.
- People with disabilities: Individuals with disabilities may have difficulty escaping or reporting attacks.
- Students: College campuses and high schools can be hunting grounds for serial killers seeking young, unsuspecting victims.
Using Specific Tactics:
- Luring: Serial killers often use charm, deception, or threats to lure victims into isolated locations.
- Using their profession: Some serial killers use their professions to gain access to victims, such as healthcare workers or law enforcement officers.
- Targeting specific locations: Serial killers may focus on areas with high foot traffic or limited surveillance, such as public parks or parking lots.
- Random encounters: Some serial killers choose victims randomly, often based on opportunity or perceived vulnerability.
Utilizing Social Media:
- Online dating sites: Serial killers may use online dating sites to meet and target potential victims.
- Social media platforms: Some serial killers use social media to stalk and identify potential victims.
- Online forums: Serial killers might use online forums to connect with others who share their interests or to research potential victims.
Understanding the Psychology:
- Power and control: Many serial killers are driven by a desire for power and control over their victims.
- Sexual gratification: Sexual gratification is often a motivating factor for serial killers, particularly those who engage in sadistic acts.
- Psychological satisfaction: Serial killers may derive psychological satisfaction from the act of killing and the subsequent control over their victims' lives.
It's important to note that these are just some common methods used by serial killers. Each case is unique, and the specific strategies employed can vary widely.
