Do I Really Need Kidnap & Ransom Insurance?
- American Trauma Insurance
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
What it is—and why it matters.
Kidnapped for ransom. It’s something nobody wants to think about, let alone plan for.
For some people, it might actually feel in the realm of possibility based on their lifestyle, perhaps, but for most, it feels incredibly far-fetched—one of those “it’ll never happen to me” experiences.
Whichever camp you fall in, here’s a quick run-down:
The data isn’t clear. Because not all instances are reported and documented, it’s impossible to come up with a total number of kidnap-for-ransoms in the U.S. and across the world.
In 2019, one source estimated 15,000–20,000 kidnappings per year, with fewer than 20% being reported to authorities.
According to AG Global Strategies, a private risk management and security company, “People tend to associate kidnapping with global companies. The fact is, radical groups and criminals exist everywhere. Those persons who are perceived to be wealthy are targets of kidnap.”
At American Trauma Insurance, we only create products we know can have a major impact on someone’s life. And based on the statements above, the research we read, and the news we hear, we see an ongoing need to offer Kidnap & Ransom Insurance.
Who should consider Kidnap and Ransom Insurance?
Our coverage is designed for individuals and organizations that face elevated risks of kidnapping, extortion, or unlawful detention due to their visibility, wealth, or travel patterns, such as:
Corporate executives
Example: A CEO or CFO of a multinational corporation who frequently travels to countries with higher political instability or crime rates.
Business owners
Example: An owner of a company that outsources manufacturing or customer service overseas, requiring regular travel to those regions.
High-profile individuals and public figures
Example: Celebrities, professional athletes, or public officials who may be targeted due to their perceived wealth.
Employees traveling internationally for work
Example: Engineers, consultants, journalists, or aid workers deployed to countries where kidnap-for-ransom events aren’t unheard of.
What are the benefits?
Reimbursement for ransom and extortion payments
Fees and expenses for crisis management response
Rehabilitation costs
War and terrorism coverage
Benefit amounts exceeding $20,000,000 per person
24-hour worldwide coverage
Policy terms ranging from 1 day to 3 years
Why ATI?
In addition to our unique and widespread coverage, we collaborate with the world’s leading crisis management response groups—such as Crisis24, Control Risks, and Global Guardian—to ensure a safe and peaceful resolution to such traumatic events.