It is not common to see him while awake, but it is not impossible. In most cases, it is linked to the passing of family members. He typically appears when the lights are off or in the absence of light, and usually vanishes when a light is turned on.

Unlike a ghost, which might have visible facial features, the "Hat Man" is an entirely dark shadow, devoid of any detail—nothing but a shadow. However, he is not always described as harmless; in some instances, the Hat Man has been characterized as a distinct entity, and witnesses often report feeling absolute terror upon seeing him.

Many have reported that this entity feeds on their terror; it does not simply fade away, but rather walks off, much like an ordinary person would. This shadow possesses substance—some have even touched it—and many paranormal investigators believe that this entity warrants further study. Interestingly, this phenomenon is exclusively associated with a Hat Man wearing a top hat.