Warning Signs of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. Every year, millions of men, women and children are trafficked.
CAPSA supports survivors of human trafficking because human trafficking is abuse. Human trafficking is about exploitation; a victim can be trafficked without ever leaving their home.
Two forms of human trafficking include sexual exploitation & labor trafficking. Sexual exploitation is a form of sexual abuse in which a person(s), of any age takes advantage of a power imbalance to force or entice a person into engaging in sexual activity in return for something. Labor trafficking is using force, fraud, or coercion to compel an individual to provide involuntary labor or services.
Warning Signs of Labor Trafficking
- Malnourishment
- Signs of physical injuries and abuse
- Avoiding eye contact, social interaction, and authority figures
- Lack of personal possessions
- Working excessively long hours
- Poor health
- Inability to speak for themselves
Warning Signs of Sexual Exploitation
- Unexplained source of new clothing, jewelry, etc.
- Chronic runaway or homelessness
- Lying about age
- Lack of knowledge of a given community or whereabouts
- Presence of an overly controlling and abusive partner
- Lack of trust
- Self-blame, feelings of shame
We encourage you to be aware of warning signs so that you can help a friend or loved one in need. If you or someone you know is being trafficked or has been trafficked, please call CAPSA at 435-753-2500.
