Ransom insurance is not really necessary unless you are going around with someone who himself would be a target. The targets of kidnappings in Mexico are locals whose habits are well known. Once a person's daily habits are known, if the person is known to have some means, then the person is a potential target. Joe or Jane Average Tourist are not kidnap targets unless the do something stupid like walk alone at night or hail street cabs. IMHO, telling the average tourist to get kidnap insurance is alarmist. Their efforts are far better spent in taking basic preventive measures as described in this thread. I know a bit about this subject, a client and friend of mine was kidnapped in Mexico. He is well known, well established and for that reason he was an easy target. Frankly I am in far more danger when I go out with him than I am when I am alone.