remind American citizens visiting or resident in Ecuador of the need to
be vigilant about their personal security in light of the October 17
kidnapping for ransom of an American citizen traveling in the northern
province of Carchi. While the victim was rescued and one of the
kidnappers was arrested, American citizens are reminded to maintain good
overseas security practices in their day-to-day activities and to be
vigilant at all times.
- Maintain a habitual state of alertness.
- Keep a low personal profile by not doing anything that draws
attention to you. - Become familiar with your surroundings – it will become
easier to identify suspicious or out of place people and items. - Check the interior and exterior of your vehicle prior to
getting into your vehicle. - Check the street near your residence before you go out each
day. - Remember, people are generally most vulnerable in the morning
when departing for work. - Vary your times and routes to and from work.
- Tell your household staff and family members to note
descriptions and license numbers of suspicious vehicles seen near your
residence. - Your colleagues and family should be aware of your daily
plans and how to reach you. - Keep emergency numbers readily available; provide your family
with emergency numbers. - If possible, limit the amount of personal information that
you share with doormen, maids, vendors, temporary workers, etc. - If possible, limit the amount of access to your residence
that you provide to doormen, vendors, temporary workers, etc.