How to Identify a Victim of Human Trafficking
Indicators that school staff and administrators should be aware of concerning a potential victim:
- Demonstrates an inability to attend school on a regular basis and/or has unexplained absences
- Frequently runs away from home
- Makes references to frequent travel to other cities
- Exhibits bruises or other signs of physical trauma, withdrawn behavior, depression, anxiety, or fear
- Lacks control over his or her schedule and/or identification or travel documents
- Is hungry, malnourished, deprived of sleep, 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 include:
- Demonstrates a sudden change in attire, personal hygiene, relationships, or material possessions
- Acts uncharacteristically promiscuous and/or makes references to sexual situations or terminology that are beyond age-specific norms
- Has a “boyfriend” or “girlfriend” who is noticeably older
- Attempts to conceal recent scars
Additional signs that may indicate labor trafficking include:
- Expresses need to pay off a debt
- Expresses concern for family members’ safety if he or she shares too much information
- Works long hours and receives little or no payment
- Cares for children not from his or her own family
How to Report a Suspected Incidence of Human Trafficking
- In the case of an immediate emergency, call your local police department.
- To report suspected human trafficking crimes or to get help from law enforcement, call toll-free (24/7) 1-866-347-2423 or submit a tip online at www.ice.gov/tips.
- To report suspected trafficking crimes, get help, or learn more about human trafficking from a nongovernmental organization, call the toll-free (24/7) National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1-888-373-7888.
- To report sexually exploited or abused minors, call the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST, or report incidents at http://www.cybertipline.org.
