Street scam and pickpocket Consultant
Street scam and con game expert
Are you working on a film and need an expert to help make it more authentic? Or maybe you're looking for insights into the world of street scams and con games to assist with law enforcement training or public awareness days.
Nick Stein, also known as The Crooked Croupier, has made a name for himself as an expert in all things pickpocketing, con games, and street scams. Nick is a true master of his craft, with years of experience as a street performer which has given him unparalleled knowledge of how scammers operate on the street and how to spot their manoeuvres.
He's worked on films and ads and has even gone undercover with The BBC to consult on and expose the infamous shell game gangs of London.
But don't let his "crooked" background fool you. Nick uses his knowledge and expertise for good, working as a consultant for various projects. He has helped Kodak execute a street scam for marketing purposes by hacking the unsuspecting public's phones and worked on a film for Channel 4 in which he was tasked to steal phones as part of a viral prank. Of course, all possessions were returned unharmed and no phones were damaged in the process.
Adding to this impressive wrap sheet, Nick has also played on the right side of the law, joining forces with the police to create awareness days that educate the public about pickpocketing and street scams - because the best way to beat a conman is to think like one.
“An expert on street scams!”
Undercover with the BBC
Nick took on a dual role in this operation, both as a consultant and an undercover operative. As an advisor, he played an integral part in the BBC's investigation, demystifying the complex web of con games and sharing his invaluable insights into the art of deception. With Nick’s guidance, the BBC could peel back the layers of the shell game, revealing the rotten core beneath the seemingly innocent cup and ball game.
Undercover, he scrupulously documented the gang's activities, their methods, their targets, and their hideaways. His unique perspective, earned from years of performing street theatre across the street from these scammers, proved invaluable. He was able to relay first-hand the tricks and traps that the shell game gangs employ, aiding the BBC in their quest to raise public awareness about this insidious scam.
The Kodak Con
In a most memorable collaboration with Imperial Leisure, Nick was tasked to concoct a public spectacle for a Kodak advert. Breathing life back into the concept of printing photos.
Nick professed to demonstrate a wireless speed charger on the phones of unsuspecting passersby. In doing so, he secretly switched the phone for a pre-programmed duplicate before apparently having wiped the phones of all data by accident. The reactions were unanimous; they all panicked that their precious photos would be lost forever.
Once the initial shock subsided, Nick would return the phone unscathed, their priceless images still intact.
Through these mischievous yet harmless pranks, Nick and Imperial Leisure successfully delivered an advert that was as entertaining as it was unforgettable and was featured on mashable.com within hours of the ad's release. Nick's consultancy proved vital in crafting an authentic, engaging, and above all, amusing marketing campaign.
“HE UNDERSTOOD WHAT WE WANTED TO ACHIEVE & HIS EXPERIENCE IN MAGIC & STREET PERFORMING PROVED INVALUABLE!”
The Wild Thing Sting
In an eccentric collaboration with Green Lions for a Channel 4 film (Project Wild Thing), Nick aimed to give technology-addicted youngsters a nudge towards nature. Armed with his signature mischievous charm, he performed an audacious feat that would leave any phone-dependent individual gasping. Imagine strolling down the street, distracted by your mobile device, only to have it swiped by our own Crooked Croupier under the guise of installing a brand-new app. But wait, it gets worse. Nick would swiftly and secretly replace their precious gadget with a replica, which he would then proceed to drop in water and shatter with a hammer!
The reactions garnered were pure gold - shock, disbelief, and then relief when the real phone was returned unharmed. The stunt served a dual purpose - not only did it provide a hearty chuckle to bystanders and viewers alike, but it also delivered a poignant message about our reliance on technology and the importance of reconnecting with nature. This clever prank, underpinned by Nick's expert guidance, served as a gentle reminder to look up from our screens, step outside and appreciate the natural world around us. What a coup!
Ready to Pull-off the Ultimate Con with Nick?
If you're ready to add that authentic touch of mischief to your next project or simply need to steal some insights from a street scam expert, Nick Stein, The Crooked Croupier, is your man. Dive into the world of pickpocketing, con games, and street scams with the expert himself. Whether it's for a film, a social experiment, or an awareness campaign, Nick is ready to lend his expertise and ensure your project is as cunningly authentic as possible. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the game.
FAQs
-
Nick offers a wide range of consultation services. These include providing expert advice on making con games look authentic in films, teaching actors to convincingly handle a deck of cards, and giving insights into street scams for law enforcement.
-
Indeed, he has. Nick has gone undercover with The BBC to expose shell game gangs in London, helped Kodak execute a street scam, and stolen passersby's phones for a film with Channel 4, all in the name of entertainment and education.
-
Not at all. Nick has also used his unique skill set to partner with law enforcement, creating public awareness days that educate people about the hazards of pickpocketing and street scams.
-
Absolutely. Nick's performances are not only entertaining but educational as well. His years of experience and expertise in the world of pickpocketing, con games, and street scams make for a truly unique and enlightening experience.