Recognizing the signs of human trafficking

Human trafficking affects us all. The month of January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, dedicated to bringing awareness to this national and global topic.

It’s important to understand and look for initial signs that may indicate a person is a victim of human trafficking. These signs are not conclusive but are an indication that further investigation or observation is necessary to identify a victim. The lists below include signs for victims who are under the age of 18 and for adult victims.

Human trafficking victims who are minors (under the age of 18)

• Misses school on a regular basis and/or has unexplained absences
• Frequently runs away from home
• Makes references to frequent travel to other cities or towns
• Exhibits bruises or other signs of physical trauma, withdrawn behavior, depression, anxiety or fear
• Lacks control over her or his schedule and/or identification or travel documents
• Is hungry, malnourished, or inappropriately dressed (based on weather conditions or surroundings)
• Shows signs of drug addiction
• Has coached/rehearsed responses to questions

Additional signs that may indicate sex trafficking:

• Demonstrates a sudden change in attire, behavior, relationships, or material possessions (e.g., has expensive items)
• Is uncharacteristically promiscuous and/or makes references to sexual situations or terminology that are beyond age-specific norms
• Has a “boyfriend” or a “girlfriend” who is noticeably older
• Attempts to conceal recent scars
• Shows a sudden change in attention to personal hygiene

Additional signs observed while traveling:

• Has a travel companion who controls documents, tickets, and movement
• Avoids eye contact with travel companion
• Lacks knowledge of travel plans and destination

Human trafficking victims who are adults (over the age of 18)

• Living with their employer
• Poor living conditions
• Multiple people in a cramped space
• Inability to speak to an individual alone
• Answers appear to be scripted and rehearsed
• Employer is holding identity documents (passport, identification, license)
• Signs of physical abuse
• Submissive or fearful
• Unpaid or paid very little

Follow up questions to ask a potential victim
If you have the opportunity to speak with a potential victim privately and without jeopardizing the victim’s safety, here are sample follow up questions to ask.

• Can you leave your job if you want to?
• Can you come and go as you please?
• Have you been hurt or threatened if you tried to leave?
• Has your family been threatened?
• Do you live with your employer?
• Where do you sleep and eat?
• Are you in debt to your employer?
• Do you have your passport/identification? Who has it?

Find Resources
Visit our Human Trafficking Resources page to get started with resources for victims and survivors.

Sources:
US Department of State
Youth.gov