A few people have been asking me why we shoot them down instead of ransoming so I thought I'd briefly explain our reasoning.
If there's a mining operation with many targets there may not be chance to scramble everyone. Then it's easier to scramble the bigger targets and shoot down small threats.
After-all we're hunting for ISK.
There may also be other reasons why we shoot you down. If you shoot back and never turn off your guns or withdraw your drones. That's also a clear sign. Ignoring conversation invitations, smacktalking, trying to pull log-off tactics.
It is important to understand that pirates do not take unecessary risks if possible. Operations are often carried out clean and swift.
Tackle the big guy, take down any small threats, ransom the big guy and then leave.
There are also a few more cases when we'd rather destroy than ransom. That is if you're a previous target who ever crossed our path and did something we didn't like. Shooting at us, smacktalking, logtactics and the list goes on.
Another reason for shooting you down on the spot is if your ship is deemed too big of a threat. Fitted with smartbombs or anything else which could seriously screw us up when the effect from the initial surprise attack is gone.
So to stay safe:
Deactivate - Comply - Pay.