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Message From the DirectorAbout This GuideResources
Resource Guide for Serving U.S. Citizens Victimized Abroad
Publication Date:  April 2008
Contents
Victim Services: An International Outlook
Responding to Victimization Abroad
Coordinating Victim Services
minus iconIf the Victim Remains Abroad
minus iconIf the Victim Returns to the United States
minus iconInternational Terrorism
minus iconCrime Victim Compensation
Checklists for Assisting U.S. Citizens Victimized Abroad

Coordinating Victim Services

Privacy and Confidentiality

In accordance with the Privacy Act (PL 93-579) passed by Congress in 1974, U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Overseas Citizens Services personnel are not permitted to release any information not deemed to be in the public domain regarding private individuals without the express written consent of the citizens involved.

U.S. citizens who are victims of crime and present themselves to a U.S. embassy or consulate are asked to complete a Privacy Act Waiver Form that specifies persons or organizations that may be contacted regarding their case. This waiver is adhered to during any communication on behalf of the victim, such as consular officers contacting the next of kin or victim assistance specialists contacting U.S.-based victim service providers.

Contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services in Washington, D.C., to obtain a form that authorizes the agency and victim service providers to share information on behalf of victims of crime.