There’s no rulebook when it comes to human trafficking. Victims may be of any sex, age, ethnicity, or social status.
Thin, red lines criss-crossing the wrists and ankles are often left behind when a victim has been tied up. Malnourishment or a dirty or unkempt appearance could be due to neglect, even if there are no visible signs of harm. [3] X Research source You might feel pretty scared if you have reason to think you’ve come into contact with a victim of human trafficking, but by being alert and attentive, you have the potential to help save a life.
Children and young teenagers wearing suggestive or revealing items, such as low-cut tops, short skirts or shorts, or plainly visible undergarments, may be facing exploitation as sex workers. When traveling, determine whether the person’s style of dress matches their intended destination. A child on a flight to a country with a cold climate wearing only a tank top, shorts, and cheap flip-flops may not have chosen those clothes for themselves.
Look for odd or isolated tattoos in places like the wrists, upper arms, and the back of the neck. Tattoos should always be a cause for suspicion when spotted on a person who appears to be underage.
Pay attention to inconsistencies in the person’s account of what they’re doing and who they’re with. [7] X Research source Cautious traffickers will frequently try to do most or all of the talking for the victim.
Victims of human trafficking are conditioned to act invisible around authority figures out of fear of being punished for drawing attention.
Traffickers sometimes use intoxicating substances as a means of influencing and manipulating their victims. [9] X Trustworthy Source World Health Organization Health information and news provided by the World Health Organization. Go to source If the person is close enough to examine discreetly, check for other indications that they might have been given something to dull their reactions, like dilated pupils, needle marks, or the smell of alcohol.
The victim may show heightened fear or agitation when their captor is around. It’s not uncommon for traffickers and their associates to pose as bosses, business partners, parents, or boyfriends in order to explain their connection to the victim and prevent people from asking questions. [11] X Research source
Stumbling upon a case of human trafficking is a nerve-wracking experience. Do your best to remain calm. Remember that you’re doing the right thing by looking out for your own wellbeing as well as that of the victim. Avoid drawing attention to yourself. The suspected trafficker will be more likely to try to get away if they think they might get caught.
You may be expected to provide further information, including a detailed description of the person and anyone they happen to be with. Ask to remain anonymous if you’re feeling uneasy about getting involved.
Professionals like flight attendants, customs agents, and conductors are often trained to spot and respond to instances of possible human trafficking. [15] X Research source On-site police or security will then be able to apprehend the suspect and get the victim to safety.
If you’d prefer, you can submit a report online by going to https://humantraffickinghotline. org/report-trafficking and filling out the included form. Many of these organizations also offer the services of crisis counselors to those who have experienced the traumatizing effects of human trafficking. Don’t hesitate to reach out to one of these people if you’ve been affected by what you’ve witnessed.
