Human Trafficking: How to Spot the Signs and What to Do
Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing criminal industries in the United States. Commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) among trafficked individuals specifically is estimated to generate approximately $173B per year worldwide, according to a report by International Labor Organization in 2024.
It’s an issue that is misunderstood thanks to the more sensationalized portrayals of Hollywood. But trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation at its core involves individuals who are manipulated or coerced into sexual activities in exchange for something of value—money, shelter, food, transportation, or even the promise of love or stability.
These situations are rarely about choice. As Becca Stevens, founder of Thistle Farms, poignantly asks: "If prostitution was the choice, what were the options?" For many, exploitation arises from systemic vulnerabilities such as childhood trauma, homelessness, food insecurity, substance abuse, or a lack of available resources to sustain one’s basic needs.
Understanding Trafficking and CSE
Commercial sexual exploitation encompasses a range of activities, including:
- Prostitution and other types of street-level exploitation
- Stripping or exotic dancing
- Escorting
- Pornography
- Erotic massage
- Digital exploitation such as webcams, OnlyFans, and other online platforms
While the news media and Hollywood alike are more apt to portray or talk about trafficking in relation to dramatic kidnappings, most cases involve psychological coercion or manipulation by someone the victim knows and trusts. Traffickers exploit their victims' vulnerabilities, often without the need for physical confinement or crossing borders.
Victims can come from any community, and trafficking occurs everywhere—from large cities to rural areas. Women, girls, and female-identifying individuals are disproportionately affected, along with people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals, who face higher rates of trafficking due to systemic inequities.
Signs of Trafficking and Exploitation
Recognizing trafficking can be challenging, as victims can often live and work in plain sight – as a coworker, as a neighbor, and even someone who sits next to you in church or a little league game. Like other types of interpersonal and intimate partner violence, the signs aren’t universal and change depending on the person and their situation.
However, there are some key indicators to watch for:
- Unstable living situations or experiencing homelessness.
- Fast-moving romantic relationships with noticeable power, financial, and often age disparities.
- Restricted movement, such as being accompanied everywhere, not allowed to drive, or hesitating to speak when alone.
- Signs of physical abuse, including bruises, burns, or untreated injuries.
- Lack of control over personal finances, with money being taken or restricted.
- Signs of coercion, such as providing sexual services under intimidation or threat.
- Emotional trauma, including fear, anxiety, isolation, or low self-esteem.
- Substance use as a coping mechanism.
What to Do if You Suspect Trafficking
If you see something that doesn’t sit right, trust your instincts and take action. Signs of trafficking may overlap with domestic abuse or other forms of violence, but all are reasons to seek help.
Reporting Trafficking
To report suspected trafficking or exploitation:
- Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
- Notify local law enforcement if immediate safety is a concern.
When reporting, include as much information as possible, such as:
- Age, gender, and physical description of the suspected victim.
- Location (physical or online).
- Overview of suspicious behavior or circumstances.
- Any threats or signs of coercion observed.
- Information about the suspected trafficker or pimp, if known.
Trafficking is a complex and deeply rooted issue, but by learning the signs and taking action, we can help protect vulnerable individuals in our community and bring traffickers to justice. Through awareness, we can create safer communities and advocate for systemic change to reduce the number of vulnerabilities that lead to exploitation.
If you see something, say something. Be the voice that helps someone find freedom and healing.
