10 SIGNS OF SEX TRAFFICKING

Sex trafficking is an incredibly distressing crime that inflicts suffering on its victims, involving the forced exploitation of individuals for sexual acts and purposes. Sadly, the nature of this crime makes it extremely difficult to identify victims, as traffickers employ manipulative tactics and exert control to keep their victims hidden from view. It is vital, therefore, to be able to recognize the subtle signs that may indicate someone is being subjected to sex trafficking. By doing so, we can play a critical role in identifying and providing much-needed help to potential victims, offering them a lifeline out of their harrowing circumstances.

1. DISORIENTED OR FEARFUL BEHAVIOUR

Victims of trafficking may show signs of being scared, anxious, or depressed. They might act in a submissive manner, avoid making eye contact, or show signs of extreme trauma. It can be hard for them to express themselves or communicate with others because they are afraid or because they don’t speak the same language.

2. RESTRICTED FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT

Victims of trafficking are trapped and unable to move freely or go wherever they want. They are always being monitored or guarded by someone else. These victims might display signs that show they are being controlled or forced to do things against their will by others.

3. PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

Victims often bear the painful marks of physical abuse, such as bruises, scars, or other unexplained injuries. The toll of their suffering is evident in their malnourished and exhausted appearance, sometimes show signs of substance abuse. You might notice that they don’t have the right clothes or personal belongings that you’d expect them to have.

4. INABILITY TO MAKE DECISIONS OR SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

Victims may seem like they’re under the control of someone else. They might always have someone by their side who speaks on their behalf, and they may struggle to speak up about their own wishes and thoughts. This can be hard for them because they are afraid or because they don’t speak the same language.

5. SIGNS OF SEXUAL EXPLOITATION

Victims of sexual exploitation may show certain signs or behaviours. For example, they might have multiple sexual partners or show physical signs of abuse connected to sexual acts. Another clue could be a history of having different sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s also possible that they have been involved in the commercial sex industry in the past.

6. PRESENCE OF CONTROLLING INDIVIDUALS

Victims may be constantly accompanied by someone who appears to have control over their actions or decisions. They use fear, threats, or even hurt them physically to control them.

7. INCONSISTENT STORIES

When victims are asked about their situation or where they come from, they may not give consistent answers. It could seem like their responses might look rehearsed, or they might not share many details about their personal lives or the places they’re from.

8. DISCONNECTED FROM FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

Victims of trafficking are often kept away from their friends, family, and community support networks. They are not allowed to make new friends or connect with people outside of the control of their traffickers. This isolation leaves them feeling alone and trapped, without anyone to turn to for help or comfort. It’s a cruel tactic used by traffickers to maintain control over their victims and make it even harder for them to escape their dreadful circumstances.

9. FALSE IDENTIFICATION OR LACK OF OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS

Victims may have false identification documents or have none at all. The traffickers often take away their passports, ID cards, and other important papers, making it difficult for the victims to escape or seek help. This tactic is used by traffickers to maintain power and control over their victims, trapping them in a cycle of exploitation and preventing them from reclaiming their freedom.

10. LACK OF CONTROL OVER FINANCES

Traffickers have a tight grip on their victims, even when it comes to money. They make sure victims don’t have control over their own finances. These victims usually don’t have their own bank accounts, and whatever money they earn is taken away by the traffickers.

It’s important to understand that just noticing these signs doesn’t automatically mean someone is a victim of sexual trafficking. However, if you have suspicions about someone possibly being a victim, it’s incredibly important to share your concerns with the local police or organizations that fight against trafficking. Trained experts can carefully assess the situation, offer the right support, and seek the necessary help for the person in question. By reporting your suspicions, you could potentially make a significant difference in someone’s life and help them find the assistance they need.