Crossing the street will not help they will merely know you for being afraid and follow.
Just like the Jungle movies when the man says show no fear that is the best attitude.
Show no fear, but be ready.
But first let me say that they will not attack a person who appears strong, these cowards are looking for the weak and the elderly. If they think they may get hit back they will not hit.
A friend of mine was a victim of the knock out "game". It sent him to the hospital, and he missed about two weeks of work.
He is not weak or elderly. He was simply hit hard in the head from behind, and down he went.
Crossing the street will not help they will merely know you for being afraid and follow.
At one time I would have agreed with you, but now I'm not sure. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Might be time to skedaddle. Walking confidently did not help my friend.
Yeah, having to think that way stinks, I know.
Be polite. Be professional. Be prepared to kill anyone you meet.