Although it may be tricky to necessarily know if someone is or has been in the circle of being trafficked it’s important to be aware of what the usual characteristics of those who fall victim to the industry are. Human trafficking is everywhere even if we may not know it’s happening. The industry is rapidly growing and it’s important to look for the signs.

Pimps and traffickers often show these characteristics:

• Jealous, controlling and violent
• Significantly older than female companions
• Promise things that seem too good to be true
• Encourage victims to engage in illegal activities to achieve their goals and dreams
• Buys expensive gifts or owns expensive items
• Is vague about his/her profession
• Pushy or demanding about sex
• Encourages inappropriate sexual behavior
• Makes the victim feel responsible for his/her financial stability. Very open about financial matters.

Someone who may be subjected to trafficking may show these characteristics:

• Signs of physical abuse such as burn marks, bruises or cuts
• Unexplained absences from class
• Less appropriately dressed than before
• Sexualized behavior
• Overly tired in class
• Withdrawn, depressed, distracted or checked out
• Brags about making or having lots of money
• Displays expensive clothes, accessories or shoes
• New tattoo (tattoos are often used by pimps as a way to brand victims. Tattoos of a name, symbol of money or barcode could indicate trafficking)
• Older boyfriend or new friends with a different lifestyle
• Talks about wild parties or invites other students to attend parties
• Shows signs of gang affiliation? (ie: a preference for specific colors, notebook doodles of gang symbols, etc.)

***NOTE: All of these characteristics are broad generalizations***

To read more about what to look for click here