Spiders don’t have a single “attack instinct” toward people; when they seem to run toward you, it’s usually a mix of misread behavior and certain limitations in spider perception. Here’s what’s typically going on:

• Startle or escape response: If a spider is startled or disturbed, it may dash in a direction that happens to be toward you. This isn’t purposeful approach for confrontation, just a quick attempt to find shelter or distance from a threat.
• Limited vision: Many spiders rely on touch and vibrations more than sight. With poor night-time or cluttered-spot vision, they may move in a straight line or toward a shadowy area without recognizing a human presence, leading to the impression that they’re targeting you.
• Hunting motion: Some spiders are actively stalking or chasing prey. If a small insect is near you, a spider might briefly move toward your vicinity as it pursues the prey, making the path seem like it’s aimed at you when you’re simply in the way.
• Seeking shelter or hiding spots: In dense environments, a spider might seek dark crevices or clothing as shelter. If your footprint, shadow, or a stray breeze changes the environment near it, the spider could move toward what it perceives as shelter, which can coincide with your location.
• Defensive behavior is rare: Most spiders prefer to avoid humans. They’re not seeking protection from people nor intent on interaction; they’re trying to survive or catch prey.

Practical tips if you encounter a spider:

• Stay calm and give it space; slowly back away if it’s close.
• Do not swat; a quick move can startle it into a defensive posture.
• If you need to remove it, gently guide it into a container and release it outside away from structures.
• Reduce attractants: seal cracks, reduce clutter, keep doors and windows screened, and clear debris where spiders may hide.

If you’re dealing with a specific species (e.g., dangerous or large spiders), I can provide tailored safety guidance.