99TravelSafe.com
The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
31 – Avoiding Getting Kidnapped While Traveling!
Related Pages - Please Also See;
33 – In Case of Theft and Loss During Travel
34 – Ensuring Money or Cash Safety During Travel
35 – Ensuring Credit Card Safety During Travel
14 - Precautions While Walking On The Streets During Travel
Safety Tips for Business Travelers
Travel Safety for Senior Citizens
Avoiding Getting Kidnapped While Traveling
RESEARCH your destination to find out if the local situation poses an increased risk of being kidnapped.
The risk of kidnapping can be higher if you go to a location where:
--there is conflict such as a war, violent demonstrations or violent local disputes
--terrorists and militant groups are present
--crime rates are high and foreigners are seen as wealthy and easy targets
Avoid travel to destinations where there is an elevated risk of kidnapping. If you are still planning to travel to a destination where there is a risk of kidnapping, you should manage your social media accounts by:
--turning on their privacy settings
--not posting public messages during your trip
--removing photos, comments or other material from your social media accounts and electronic devices that local groups ould consider controversial or provocative
--you may be targeted if you are seen as an enemy of a cause
Avoid situations that could put you at risk, such as:
--displaying wealth, such as jewellery and expensive clothing
--accepting offers of romantic or business opportunities from people you meet online
Keep contact with a person or persons you trust who will:
--have access to a detailed itinerary of your travel plans
--plan to have regularly scheduled check-ups with you and, if needed, track your location through your electronic devices or SIM card
--be the point of contact if you are taken hostage or detained
--agree on specific questions that only you can answer
--have access to important documents
--have login details to access online information to manage your personal affairs should you be unable
Talk to a professional security organization, your host organization or employer about:
--a thorough security risk assessment
--having personal security measures in place when you arrive
If from a wealthier country, you may be targeted for kidnapping. Those who perpetrate these crimes are either promoting a political agenda and/or seeking to gain a financial or political dividend. Travelers are highly advised to be aware of whether there is a history or risk (known threats, targeting) of kidnappings in places they intend to travel and take necessary precautions. Because hostage situations vary greatly, the following considerations should be applied based on one’s best judgment at the time.
Your Government may not pay ransom to kidnappers.
The greatest risk of physical harm exists at the point of capture and during a rescue attempt or upon release.
Remain calm and alert, exert control on emotions and behavior.
Be passively cooperative, but maintain your dignity.
Assume an inconspicuous posture and avoid direct eye contact with captors.
Avoid resistance, belligerence or threatening movements.
Make reasonable, low-key requests for personal comforts (bathroom breaks, a blanket, exercise, books to read, etc.)
If you are questioned, keep your answers short.
Volunteer nothing.
As a captive situation draws out, try to establish some understanding with your captors.
Avoid discussing contentious issues (politics, religion, ethnicity, etc.)
Establish a daily regiment to maintain yourself physically and mentally.
Eat what your captors provide. Consume little food and drink. Avoid alcohol.
Keep a positive, hopeful attitude.
Attempt to escape only after weighing the risks and when you are certain to succeed.