Projecting confidence—walking with shoulders back and head up—can deter potential attackers who look for easy targets.
Your first line of defense is being aware of your surroundings, recognizing potential threats, and avoiding dangerous situations before they escalate.
If confronted, try to stay calm and express that you are not interested in conflict to prevent the situation from becoming physical. Masterful Self-Defense Tips and Techniques for Protection
Use a firm, assertive voice to set boundaries. Commands like "Stop!" or "Back off!" can deter an aggressor and alert others to your situation.