Human trafficking is a worldwide problem and the United States is no exception. Victims can come from many walks of life but minors and immigrants are especially vulnerable populations. Trafficking falls into two main categories: Labor trafficking and sex trafficking. It’s important to know how to spot and assist a victim of human trafficking.
How to Spot a Victim of Human Trafficking
- Poor living conditions
- Multiple people living in a small space or unit
- Living with an employer
- Seeming fearful or submissive
- Unable to speak to them alone
- Evasive if you do speak to them alone
- Answers to questions seem rehearsed or scripted
- Signs of physical abuse
- Unpaid or paid very little and usually not allowed to handle money
- Someone else is in control of their ID or other identifying documents
- Under age 18 and involved in prostitution
It can be very dangerous for an individual to try to rescue a trafficking victim. You have no idea how the trafficker might retaliate against you or the victim. So, what do you do if you spot a victim of human trafficking?
How to Assist a Human Trafficking Victim
If urgent and immediate help is needed, you can call 911 for law enforcement assistance. The other option is to call or text the National Human Trafficking Hotline. You can call at 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to 233733. They have responders available 24/7 to help you with next steps and the have representatives who speak English, Spanish and 200 other languages. Go ahead and program these numbers into your phone right now so you are prepared should you ever spot a victim of human trafficking and need to offer assistance.
Human trafficking is a global issue and it is happening everywhere, even in your town. Being aware of how to spot and assist a human trafficking victim can literally save someone’s life.
