Virtual Kidnapping, the newest element of kidnap and ransom insurance
virtual kidnap
Virtual kidnapping, virtual kidnap, is a new trend affecting expatriate global security and the security of business travelers, vacationers, and students on “study abroad.” Employers that have kidnap and ransom insurance policies in effect are advised to look at their current policies to see if they cover “virtual kidnap” and if their provider would lend consulting expertise and support services. Most programs will not cover virtual kidnapping because the kidnap and ransom insurance company will need to verify that the individual has been abducted or threatened before they will make a benefit payment.
What is virtual kidnapping? Virtual kidnap is when the “kidnappers” do not actually have anyone abducted but instead, using email and other means, say they are holding an individual or may threaten an individual in the hopes that a quick payment will be made before it is realized the “victim” is safe and sound.
Also, in the case of a university student studying abroad or doing “semester at sea” there could be threats against the individual or extortion threats, in an attempt to get a cash payment. Again, by the very nature of virtual kidnapping, there is no real danger to the “target.” Please come back to the International Executive Security Monitor as we look at virtual kidnap more closely over the next few months.
