Designed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the sChoker–a smart choker, is a social distancing neck brace that allows proximity monitoring and sends alerts as one moves through a crowded space. The design of the sChoker is inspired by a close-fitting necklace worn around the neck by women and men in various cultures and tribes across the world. In its technical assemblage, the sChoker makes use of simple thermal sensors (PIS sensors) to detect close animate presence and informs the host, who can then move away while still maintaining privacy and anonymity. Ergonomically designed, a circular ring allows mounting of the PIS sensors to cover 360 degrees view angle and wearing it around the neck allows sensing without obstruction.