Helpful Resources for Human Trafficking Victims

Human trafficking is a global crisis that affects millions of people, tears families apart, and leaves survivors with lasting trauma. Over 49 million people are trapped in modern slavery, including 12 million children. Of these people, 28 million are in forced labour.

Globally, human trafficking is a $150 billion industry, and in the U.S., it’s the second most profitable criminal activity. Human trafficking relies on deception, coercion, and abuse. Victims are often isolated, stripped of their freedom, and forced into dangerous situations, while families are left searching for answers.

This guide provides critical resources for survivors, families, and advocates, and offers practical steps for prevention, emergency support, and legal assistance. If you or someone you know needs help, contact a trusted organization or emergency hotline immediately.

Emergency Hotlines for Human Trafficking Survivors

For those in immediate danger or seeking urgent help, these helplines provide confidential, 24/7 support, connecting victims and survivors with emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and law enforcement.

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, reach out to one of the following hotlines:

• National Human Trafficking Hotline – 1-888-373-7888 | A 24/7 multilingual hotline providing confidential support for victims, survivors, and witnesses of human trafficking.
• Safe Horizon Hotline – 1-800-621-4673 | Operated by the largest victim services nonprofit in the U.S., offering support to survivors of crime and abuse in New York City.
• Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (CAST) Hotline – 888-539-2373 | A Los Angeles-based organization providing advocacy, emergency assistance, and survivor support.
• ICE Tip Line – (866) 347-2423 (U.S. & Canada) / (802) 872-6199 (Worldwide) | Report suspicious criminal activity related to human trafficking to U.S. authorities 24/7.
• National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) CyberTipline – 1-800-843-5678 | A Congressionally authorized reporting system for crimes against children, including trafficking and exploitation.
• Rahab’s Daughters Hotline – 1-833-463-9329 | Provides rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration support for trafficking survivors, along with community education.
• European Human Trafficking Hotlines – Find country-specific helplines here | Directory of national hotlines for trafficking victims across Europe.

Resources for Victims and Survivors

Survivors of human trafficking can face serious challenges when escaping exploitation and rebuilding their lives. To rebuild their lives, they often need access to safe housing, legal aid, medical care, and trauma counseling.

Below, we provide a list of organizations that provide shelters, case management, legal assistance, medical support, and therapy for trafficking survivors. These resources can help survivors find safety, stability, and the support they need to heal and move forward.

1. Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (CAST)

Location: United States
Website: castla.org
Contact:

• Address: 3580 Wilshire Blvd, #900-37, Los Angeles, CA 90010
• Phone: 888-KEY-2-FREE (888-539-2373)
• Email: info@castla.org

Services Provided:

• 24/7 human trafficking hotline
• Emergency and long-term shelter
• Case management, legal aid, and immigration advocacy
• Employment and life skills training
• Youth services and survivor leadership programs
• Training for law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations

Description:

The Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking (CAST) is a nonprofit based in Los Angeles that provides support to survivors of human trafficking. CAST offers a 24/7 hotline for emergency assistance, safe housing, legal aid, and case management services to help survivors rebuild their lives. Survivors can also get help with finding a job, learning new skills, and applying for benefits.

The organization works closely with lawyers, healthcare providers, and law enforcement to ensure survivors receive the support they need. CAST also runs programs for young people and connects survivors with a network of others who have gone through similar experiences. The organization trains professionals and community groups to better understand and respond to human trafficking.

Help is available through CAST’s 24/7 hotline at 888-539-2373.

2. Covenant House

Location: North and Central America
Website: covenanthouse.org
Contact:

• Address: 5 Penn Plaza, New York, NY 10001, USA
• Phone: 1-800-388-3888
• Email: Contact form

Services Provided:

• Emergency shelter, food, and medical care
• Therapy and trauma support
• Employment and education assistance
• Long-term housing programs

Description:

Covenant House provides safe shelter and support for youth facing homelessness and human trafficking across 34 cities in North and Central America. With over 50 years of experience, the organization provides safe shelter, medical care, food, and support at no cost.

A significant portion of the residents at Covenant House — 50% in Latin America and 20% in the U.S. and Canada — are survivors of human trafficking. The organization meets their urgent needs for protection, medical care, and counseling while also offering safe spaces and rigorous mental health services to help survivors heal.

Covenant House also supports long-term recovery through education, job training, and independent housing programs. Some locations provide alternative therapies like art, music, and pet therapy to aid in healing.

For help, call 1-800-388-3888 or visit a Covenant House location to find safety, services, and support.

3. European Union Human Trafficking Hotlines

Location: European Union (EU)
Website: European Commission
Contact:

• General EU Helpline: 00 800 6789 1011
• List of National Hotlines: EU Anti-Trafficking Hotlines
• HQ Address: Rue de la Loi 200, B-1049 Brussels, Belgium

Services Provided:

• National hotlines for human trafficking in each EU country
• Crisis intervention and victim support
• Assistance for reporting suspected trafficking cases
• Resources for migrant and labor rights violations

Description:

The European Union provides national hotlines in each member state for victims of human trafficking and those reporting suspected exploitation. These hotlines connect callers to emergency assistance, shelters, legal aid, and social services in their respective countries. Many hotlines operate 24/7 and offer multilingual support, ensuring accessibility for victims from diverse backgrounds.

Human trafficking remains a widespread issue in the EU, with over 10,000 victims registered in 2022, with many more going undetected. 37% of victims are EU citizens and 15% are children, making local support services critical. Trafficking generates up to €14 billion per year for criminal networks, particularly in the sex trade.

To combat this crisis, the EU launched the End Human Trafficking. Break the Invisible Chain campaign. This initiative raises awareness of trafficking networks, helps people recognize warning signs, and encourages reporting.

For immediate assistance or to report human trafficking, visit the EU hotline directory to find the correct national hotline for your country.

4. The Human Trafficking Legal Center

Location: United States
Website: htlegalcenter.org
Contact:

• Address: 1030 15th Street NW – 104B, Washington, DC 20005
• Email: info@htlegalcenter.org

Services Provided:

• Free legal representation for trafficking survivors
• Criminal victim-witness support and immigration relief
• Civil litigation and financial restitution advocacy
• Legal research and policy reform

Description:

The Human Trafficking Legal Center connects trafficking survivors with free legal representation, helping them seek justice, secure financial restitution, and rebuild their lives. With a network of over 5,000 pro bono attorneys, the organization provides legal support for criminal cases, immigration relief, tax issues, and record expungement.

HT Legal fights to hold traffickers, corporations, and governments accountable for forced labor and exploitation. They have referred 470 legal cases and helped survivors win $90 million in damages. Their advocacy has also led to federal law changes mandating that traffickers' forfeited assets be used to compensate victims.

For legal assistance or case referrals, contact info@htlegalcenter.org.

5. National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)

Location: United States
Website: missingkids.org
Contact:

• Address: 333 John Carlyle St, Alexandria, VA, United States
• Phone: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)

Services Provided:

• 24/7 CyberTipline for reporting child sexual exploitation
• Support for families of missing and exploited children
• Assistance for law enforcement in child abduction and trafficking cases
• AMBER Alert coordination and missing child search tools
• Education and training on child protection

Description:

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) is a nonprofit organization that helps locate missing children, protect them from exploitation, and assist families in crisis. Since its founding, NCMEC has handled over 5 million calls and helped recover more than 426,000 missing children. The organization works with law enforcement, social services, and the public to investigate cases and provide resources.

One of the organization’s key services is the CyberTipline, a 24/7 reporting system for child sexual exploitation. Anyone worldwide can report suspected abuse or exploitation at 1-800-843-5678 or through the secure CyberTipline website. Trained analysts review reports and share them with law enforcement when needed.

NCMEC also provides an online search tool for missing children posters, training for child safety professionals, and specialized assistance for Native and Indigenous communities. The Take It Down program helps young people remove harmful images shared online.

6. National Human Trafficking Hotline

Location: United States
Website: humantraffickinghotline.org
Contact:

• Phone: 1-888-373-7888 (24/7 confidential support)
• Text: 233733
• Live Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat
• Email: help@humantraffickinghotline.org
• Mailing Address: PO Box 65323, Washington, DC 20035

Services Provided:

• 24/7 confidential hotline in 200+ languages
• Crisis support, safety planning, and preparedness
• Reporting and referrals to law enforcement and service providers

Description:

The National Human Trafficking Hotline, operated by Polaris, is a 24/7 confidential helpline that assists victims, survivors, and witnesses of human trafficking. Trained advocates provide immediate support, connect callers with local services, and, when appropriate, help facilitate reporting to law enforcement.

The hotline is available in English, Spanish, and over 200 other languages through live interpretation. Survivors can call, text, chat online, or submit a tip anonymously. Since it was established, the Human Trafficking Hotline has received 432,902 signals, leading to the identification of 100,891 human trafficking cases and 197,000 victims.In 2021, the hotline received over 50,000 reports through calls, texts, and online tips.

The organization also offers safety planning resources, helping individuals navigate dangerous situations, stay safe online, and protect personal information. Survivors and concerned individuals can contact the hotline anytime to receive confidential help, find shelter, or report suspected trafficking cases.

For immediate assistance, call 1-888-373-7888 or visit humantraffickinghotline.org.

7. Rahab’s Daughters

Location: United States
Website: rahabsdaughters.org
Contact:

• Address: 509 Old Northwest Highway, Ste LL-1, Barrington, IL, United States
• Phone: 1 (833) 463-9329 (24/7 Hotline)
• Email: info@rahabsdaughters.org

Services Provided:

• 24/7 emergency hotline and rescue services
• Safe housing and rehabilitation programs
• Education and awareness training for communities and businesses
• Support for survivors’ reintegration into independent living
• Corporate anti-trafficking training

Description:

Rahab’s Daughters is a nonprofit organization founded by Sam Wijeyakumar, a survivor of human trafficking. The organization focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration of trafficking survivors while also working to prevent trafficking through education and outreach.

Since 2015, Rahab’s Daughters has rescued over 1,000 survivors and trained thousands in anti-trafficking awareness. Their 24/7 emergency hotline at 1-833-463-9329 provides immediate assistance, and their rescue team helps survivors reach a safe place where they receive essential support, including medical care and counseling. Survivors then work with case managers to build long-term stability, with access to education, job training, and housing.

Rahab’s Daughters also provides membership-based programs to support parents and caregivers affected by human trafficking. Moms Against Trafficking offers counseling, support groups, and prevention resources for mothers whose children have been exploited or for women taking a stand against trafficking. Dads Against Trafficking educates men on protecting their loved ones and encourages them to take the HEMAD pledge against purchasing sex.

8. Restore NYC

Location: New York City, USA
Website: restorenyc.org
Contact:

• Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1804, New York, NY 10156
• Phone: 212-840-8484
• Email: info@restorenyc.org

Services Provided:

• Transitional and long-term housing for trafficking survivors
• Trauma counseling and mental health support
• Job readiness and economic empowerment programs
• Case management and resource coordination

Description:

Restore NYC is one of the only organizations in New York City that provides both emergency and long-term housing specifically for trafficking survivors. Their programs offer survivors a safe place to recover as well as trauma counseling, medical care, and job training to help them rebuild their lives.

An estimated 26,000 people are being trafficked in New York City right now, with marginalized communities disproportionately affected. Restore NYC helps survivors regain stability and independence through housing and mental health services. I, and its economic empowerment program also helps survivors gain job skills, secure stable employment, and increase their earnings. Participants in job training see a 365% increase in earnings from intake to first job placement.

In 2023, Restore NYC served 474 survivors and at-risk individuals, with 100% of core program participants remaining free from trafficking after one year. For housing, counseling, or job support, contact Restore NYC at 212-840-8484.

9. Safe Horizon

Location: New York, USA
Website: safehorizon.org
Contact:

• 24/7 Hotline: 1-800-621-4673 (Confidential support for trafficking victims)
• Anti-Trafficking Program: 718-943-8631 (Available Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.)
• HQ Address: 41 Flatbush Avenue, 6th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11217
• Email: website@safehorizon.org

Services Provided:

• 24/7 confidential crisis hotline
• Safety planning and emergency assistance
• Advocacy and legal services for trafficking survivors
• Counseling and case management

Description:

Safe Horizon operates a 24/7 confidential hotline offering personalized, non-judgmental support for victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, and other forms of abuse in New York City. Advocates provide crisis counseling, safety planning, and connections to shelters and local resources. Services are available in any language.

Safe Horizon operates an Anti-Trafficking Program (ATP), which provides legal aid, case management, counseling, and assistance with basic needs to survivors of labor and sex trafficking. ATP also helps survivors navigate the criminal justice system and provides training for professionals and organizations on human trafficking awareness.

For legal or case management support, call the Anti-Trafficking Program at 718-943-8631 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.). If you cannot speak during business hours, leave a safe callback message, and an advocate will reach out at a later time.

10. Safe House Project

Location: United States
Website: safehouseproject.org
Contact:

• Address: 1340 North Great Neck Road, Suite 1272-162, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
• Phone: 507-769-0819
• Email: info@safehouseproject.org

Services Provided:

• Safe housing and emergency shelter
• Healthcare and therapy
• Legal support and mentorship
• Life skills training and education
• Advocacy and survivor placement services

Description:

Safe House Project helps survivors of human trafficking escape, find shelter, and rebuild their lives. The organization partners with over 479 safe homes across the U.S., serving over 150 survivors each month and providing 174,000 safe nights annually for survivors.

Safe House Project works closely with law enforcement and community partners to help survivors safely exit trafficking situations. Their referral system ensures survivors are quickly connected to safe housing, medical care, trauma therapy, and legal assistance. Since 2017, they have also trained over 400,000 people to identify and prevent trafficking.

Beyond immediate support, Safe House Project offers Survivor Scholarships and Internships, providing education, work experience, and career development to help survivors build stable, independent futures.

For immediate assistance, call 507-769-0819 or visit their website to request placement in a safe home through a referral form.

11. The Salvation Army

Location: Worldwide
Website: salvationarmyusa.org
Contact:

• Address: 615 Slaters Lane, Alexandria, Virginia 22314, USA
• Phone: 1-800-725-2769
• Email: Contact form available on their website

Services Provided:

• Emergency shelter, food, and clothing
• Medical and dental care for survivors
• Legal assistance and victim advocacy
• Crisis intervention
• Employment support and workforce development

Description:

The Salvation Army has been fighting human trafficking for over 150 years, providing survivors with shelter, safety, and long-term support. Operating in 134 countries, the organization offers comprehensive case management to address immediate needs such as food, clothing, emergency shelter, and long-term recovery, including medical care, legal aid, job training, and counseling.

In 2023 alone, The Salvation Army assisted 9,146 trafficking survivors, offering care, crisis intervention, and peer support. Their advocacy programs and awareness campaigns work to prevent trafficking and improve survivor protections worldwide.

For immediate assistance, visit their website and enter your zip code to locate the nearest Salvation Army shelter or support services. Survivors can also call 1-800-725-2769 for more information.

12. The STOP App

Location: United Kingdom
Website: https://stopthetraffik.org
Contact Details:

• Address: 35-41 Lower Marsh, London, SE1 7RL
• Phone: +44 7984 327798
• Email: info@stopthetraffik.org

Services Provided:

• Anonymous reporting for suspected human trafficking
• Real-time data analysis to detect trafficking patterns
• Prevention campaigns to educate at-risk communities

The STOP App is a free, anonymous reporting tool that helps identify and prevent human trafficking worldwide. The app allows users to securely report suspicious activity, which is then analyzed alongside other data sources to detect trafficking patterns and disrupt criminal networks.

Reports submitted through the app contribute to the Traffik Analysis Hub, a global anti-trafficking intelligence system used by law enforcement, NGOs, and businesses. Users can also receive community alerts about trafficking hotspots and access resources to stay safe.

By using the STOP App, individuals can play an active role in combating trafficking without putting themselves at risk. The app is available for iOS and Android.

Download the STOP App:

• iOS: Apple Store
• Android: Google Play

13. Thistle Farms

Location: United States
Website: thistlefarms.org

Contact:

• Address: 5122 Charlotte Ave, Nashville, TN
• Phone: 615-298-1140

Services Provided:

• Two years of free housing for women survivors
• Healthcare, trauma therapy, and counseling
• Employment training and job placement
• Legal advocacy and community support

Description:

Thistle Farms provides housing, healing, and employment opportunities for women survivors of human trafficking, prostitution, and addiction. As the largest housing-first network for trafficking survivors in the U.S., Thistle Farms supports 569 beds nationwide, with 92 sister organizations working to expand safe housing.

Their two-year residential program offers survivors free housing, healthcare, trauma therapy, and job training to help them rebuild their lives. Women in the program receive counseling, life skills training, and job placement assistance, with many transitioning into leadership roles within Thistle Farms' social enterprises or securing employment elsewhere.

Thistle Farms also advocates for systemic change and funds its mission through handmade products sold by survivors, creating sustainable income opportunities. 75% of graduates remain in stable, independent lives five years after completing the program.

Visit their website to apply for the residential program. Due to high demand, the waiting list is capped at 100 women.

Nonprofits and Charities Working to Stop Human Trafficking

Nonprofits and charities are at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking. They work to prevent exploitation, support survivors, and push for stronger laws. Below is a list of organizations that provide education, advocacy, legal assistance, and direct intervention to combat trafficking worldwide.

14. A21

Location: Worldwide
Website: a21.org
Contact:

• Address: 5th Floor, R+ Building, 2 Blagrave Street, Reading, UK
• Email: info@A21.org

Services Provided:

• Human trafficking prevention programs and education
• Child advocacy centers and aftercare
• Professional training and legal assistance for survivors
• Freedom Centers, emergency shelters, and independent housing
• Public awareness campaigns and global advocacy initiatives

Description:

A21 is a global nonprofit working to prevent human trafficking, protect survivors, and pursue justice. With operations in 19 locations across 14 countries, A21 partners with governments, law enforcement, and frontline professionals to stop trafficking at its source. Their education curriculum and prevention programs help children and communities recognize warning signs and stay safe.

A21 also leads public awareness campaigns like Can You See Me?, which educates the public on real-world trafficking scenarios and how to report suspicious activity. Their Walk for Freedom is an annual event that mobilizes communities worldwide to take action against trafficking.

For survivors, A21 provides legal aid, aftercare, emergency shelters, and relocation services to support long-term recovery. Their Freedom Centers offer survivors life skills, job training, and a pathway to independent living.

To support A21’s mission, donations can be made at a21.org/donate. To report suspected trafficking, visit their Report Now tool, where you can select a country to find the local hotlines and online reporting options.

15. International Justice Mission (IJM)

Location: Worldwide
Website: ijm.org
Contact:

• Address: PO Box 2227, Arlington, VA 22202, USA
• Phone: 844-422-5878
• Email: contact@ijm.org

Services Provided:

• Rescuing and restoring victims of human trafficking and forced labor
• Holding traffickers accountable through legal action
• Providing aftercare services for survivors
• Strengthening justice systems to prevent future violence
• Global advocacy for anti-trafficking policies and protection

Description:

International Justice Mission (IJM) is a global nonprofit working to protect people in poverty from human trafficking, forced labor, and modern slavery. With 33 program offices across 19 countries, IJM partners with local governments to rescue victims, prosecute traffickers, and strengthen justice systems to prevent future exploitation.

Beyond rescue operations, IJM focuses on long-term solutions by helping survivors rebuild their lives through aftercare services, safe housing, and vocational support. The organization also trains law enforcement, legal professionals, and community leaders to improve responses to trafficking cases and deter criminal activity.

IJM has helped over 21,800 victims escape trafficking and violence, ensuring they receive protection and justice. Their advocacy work drives policy changes worldwide to increase survivor protections and hold perpetrators accountable.

To support IJM’s mission, donations can be made at ijm.org/give.

16. Love146

Location: United States and Philippines
Website: love146.org
Contact:

• Address: PO Box 8266, New Haven, CT 06530, USA
• Phone: 1-203-772-4420
• Email: info@love146.org

Services Provided:

• Prevention education programs for at-risk youth
• Rapid response services for trafficked children
• Long-term support, skill development, and safety planning
• Education and employment assistance for survivors
• Community engagement and professional training

Description:

Love146 is a nonprofit working to prevent child trafficking and support survivors. Since 2002, the organization has helped over 3,600 children through survivor care and educated more than 68,000 youth on recognizing and avoiding trafficking risks.

In the United States, Love146 provides prevention education through Not a Number, an interactive program that teaches youth how traffickers exploit vulnerabilities and how to seek help. Their Survivor Care Program offers safety planning, crisis intervention, and long-term support, including education and employment assistance.

In the Philippines, Love146 operates two safe homes for child survivors, providing holistic care, counseling, education, and recreational therapy.

Love146 also works with communities, businesses, and service providers to improve anti-trafficking efforts through training and advocacy. Their programs equip caregivers, educators, and law enforcement with tools to better protect children.

To support Love146’s mission, donations can be made at love146.org/donate.

17. Polaris

Location: United States
Website: polarisproject.org
Contact:

• Address: P.O. Box 65323, Washington, DC 20035
• Phone: (202) 790-6300
• Email: info@polarisproject.org

Services Provided:

• Policy advocacy and public awareness campaigns
• Training programs on human trafficking prevention
• Survivor support and direct cash assistance
• National and global anti-trafficking resource directories
• 24/7 operation of the National Human Trafficking Hotline

Description:

Polaris is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending human trafficking through policy change, survivor support, and public education. Named after the North Star, a symbol of freedom, the organization has helped identify over 197,000 trafficking victims and provided over 45,000 people with training to combat human trafficking.

Polaris drives change at the policy level, working with lawmakers across the U.S. to create survivor-centered, data-driven legislation. Their campaigns focus on holding traffickers accountable, strengthening worker protections, and dismantling systems that allow trafficking to persist.

Through public engagement programs, Polaris provides free Human Trafficking 101 training, social media toolkits to combat misinformation, and direct opportunities for individuals to contact lawmakers in support of stronger anti-trafficking policies. The organization also manages a global directory of over 2,600 anti-trafficking organizations.

To support Polaris’s mission, donations can be made at polarisproject.org/donate.

18. Shared Hope International

Location: United States and Worldwide
Website: sharedhope.org
Contact:

• Address: PO Box 1907, Vancouver, WA, USA
• Phone: +1 866-437-5433
• Email: savelives@sharedhope.org

Services Provided:

• Advocacy and legal reform for anti-trafficking policies
• Prevention education and awareness campaigns
• Safe homes and restoration programs for survivors
• Research initiatives to improve legal protections for victims
• International safe homes for rescued trafficking survivors

Description:

Founded in 1998 by U.S. Congresswoman Linda Smith, Shared Hope International was created after she witnessed the brutal realities of sex trafficking in Mumbai, India. Today, the organization works to prevent trafficking, restore survivors, and bring justice by combining research, advocacy, and survivor support.

Shared Hope analyzes and grades state laws on child sex trafficking through the Protected Innocence Challenge, providing legal recommendations to strengthen protections for survivors. Their JuST Response project equips state and local agencies with tools to improve intervention efforts. They also host the Juvenile Sex Trafficking (JuST) Conference, a national event focused on advancing anti-trafficking solutions.

To educate communities and professionals, Shared Hope provides training programs, free webinars, and resources on identifying and responding to trafficking.

Through awareness campaigns, the organization mobilizes volunteers via Ambassadors of Hope, while Defenders USA encourages men to take a stand against sexual exploitation. Internationally, they support Villages of Hope in Nepal, India, and Jamaica, providing safe homes, medical care, and long-term rehabilitation for rescued survivors.

To support their work, donations can be made at sharedhope.org/donate.

Prevention and Awareness

Once a person has fallen victim to human trafficking, their life and the lives of their loved ones will be forever changed. The best way to help is through prevention and awareness — knowing the risks, recognizing the signs, and taking action. We cover crucial topics in the following sections.

Tips for Preventing Human Trafficking

Traffickers exploit trust, vulnerabilities, and misinformation to control victims. Knowing their methods can help you recognize danger and take steps to stay safe. Whether online, in everyday interactions, or through false promises, staying informed and cautious can prevent exploitation. Here’s how to protect yourself and others from human trafficking.

Stay Safe Online

• Keep social media private – Traffickers increasingly use social media to find and recruit victims. In 2021, 41% of sex trafficking survivors in U.S. federal cases were recruited online, according to the Human Trafficking Institute. Set your accounts to private and turn off location sharing to prevent strangers from tracking your movements.
• Think before sharing personal information – Traffickers look for vulnerabilities like financial struggles, housing instability, and loneliness. Avoid sharing your address, workplace, school, or travel plans.
• Be cautious with friend requests – Only accept requests from people you know. Traffickers use social media to build trust before exploitation. In a study of 133 trafficking cases, 59% of survivors were recruited through Facebook and 13% through Instagram.
• Avoid livestreaming your location – Traffickers monitor social media for potential targets. If posting a video, wait until you’ve left the location.
• Watch for job scams – Fake job offers promising high pay and little effort are a common recruitment tactic. Verify companies before applying, and never send personal documents to unverified sources.
• Be skeptical of "too good to be true" messages – Scammers may offer money, travel, or gifts to lure victims into trafficking situations.
• Report suspicious activity – If someone is harassing or pressuring you online, block and report them.

Recognize Common Perpetrators

• Traffickers are often people you know – Many victims are recruited by romantic partners, family members, or acquaintances who manipulate them over time. According to data from the National Human Trafficking Hotline, in 2021, 45% of victims were trafficked by family members and 40% by intimate partners.
• Traffickers can be anyone – They may be citizens of the same country, part of an organized network, or acting alone. In the EU, most traffickers are EU citizens, often of the same nationality as their victims.
• Both men and women traffic victims – While in some countries most traffickers are men, in others, women trafficking women is the norm. The UN found that in 30% of countries that reported gender data of traffickers, women made up the largest share.
• Traffickers use control and manipulation – They may abuse, threaten, or withhold basic needs to keep victims dependent and afraid to seek help.
• Trust your instincts – If someone makes you feel uncomfortable or pushes you into a situation that doesn’t seem right, remove yourself immediately.

Stay Safe in Person

• Stay aware of your surroundings – Traffickers frequently scout locations such as bus stations, malls, and shelters, looking for individuals who seem distracted or unaware. Trust your instincts if something feels off.
• Walk with confidence – Traffickers often target people who appear vulnerable or in need of assistance. Good posture and self-awareness can signal that you are alert and not an easy target.
• Tell someone where you’re going – Always let a friend or family member know where you’ll be, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to return.
• Use location-sharing apps – Consider using apps that let trusted people track your location in case of an emergency.
• Meet in public places – If meeting someone new, choose a busy, well-lit location and arrange your own transportation. If you’re in an unfamiliar place, stick to well-trafficked locations and avoid secluded spots.
• Be cautious of gifts and favors – Traffickers often use expensive gifts, fake relationships, or job offers to lure victims into dangerous situations.
• If you feel unsafe, leave immediately – Don’t hesitate to remove yourself from a situation that doesn’t feel right. Seek help from a trusted person or call emergency services if needed.

Recognizing the Signs of Human Trafficking

Being aware of human trafficking warning signs can help identify victims and connect them to support. Victims may be unable or afraid to seek help on their own. Below we cover key indicators to watch for.

Physical Signs

• Unexplained injuries or signs of repeated abuse – Bruises, burns, scars, or other signs of physical abuse, often in various stages of healing, may suggest long-term abuse.
• Malnourishment or signs of extreme fatigue – Trafficking victims often suffer from malnutrition and exhaustion due to excessive work and neglect.
• Poor hygiene or medical neglect – Untreated infections, poor dental health, or lack of medical care.
• Inappropriate clothing – Wearing long sleeves in hot weather (to cover injuries) or not having proper clothing for the season.
• Tattoos or branding used for control – Symbols, barcodes, or names on the neck, back, or wrists may be a trafficker’s way of marking ownership.

Behavioral Signs

• Fearful or anxious behavior – Avoiding eye contact, flinching at sudden movements, or seeming jumpy.
• Withdrawn, submissive, or scripted responses – Traffickers often coach victims on what to say if questioned. Victims may be closely monitored and fearful of speaking without approval.
• Drastic behavior changes – Sudden changes in personality, dropping out of school, or avoiding social activities.
• Appearing coached – Repeating rehearsed phrases when answering questions.
• Confusion, disorientation, or memory gaps – Trafficking victims may seem unaware of their location, personal history, or details about their daily life.

Living and Work Conditions

• Lack of personal belongings – Carrying few or no personal items, not having their own money.
• Living at their workplace – Staying on-site at a job with little freedom to leave.
• Restricted movement or monitored interactions – A trafficker or employer may control where victims go, who they talk to, or what they say.
• Forced to work excessive hours with little or no pay – Showing signs of exhaustion or being forced to work excessive shifts. Many victims work under threats, false promises, or debt bondage.
• Living in dangerous, overcrowded, or inhumane conditions – Living in overcrowded, dangerous, or unclean housing. Many victims are forced to live at their workplace or in housing controlled by their trafficker.

Social and Relationship Red Flags

• Unusual control by another person – A boss, partner, or “guardian” who monitors their actions, finances, or conversations.
• Sudden, excessive gifts or attention – A new relationship moving too fast, with expensive gifts or financial promises.
• Being recruited for work that seems too good to be true – Promises of high pay, travel, or easy jobs with little detail. Traffickers often use false job offers and promises of travel to lure victims.
• Social media connections with suspicious individuals – Engaging online with people who pressure them to meet in person. Traffickers use social media to groom victims, promising love, money, or opportunities while isolating them from family and friends.

Recognizing these signs can help prevent trafficking and aid in identifying those in need of assistance. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, contact a trusted organization or local authorities immediately.

The Bottom Line

Human trafficking is a complex issue, but awareness, prevention, and access to critical resources can make a difference in prevention and recovery. Whether you're seeking help for yourself, supporting a loved one, or looking for ways to take action, the right information can be lifesaving.

The resources in this guide are designed to support victims, survivors, and their families. Recognizing the warning signs, staying informed, and sharing knowledge can help disrupt trafficking networks and protect vulnerable individuals.

No one should have to face this crisis at all. For those who do, they shouldn’t have to face it alone. If you suspect trafficking or need assistance, reach out to a trusted organization or law enforcement agency. Every call, report, and act of awareness contributes to the fight against human trafficking and could be the first step toward safety and justice for someone in need.