Signs of sex trafficking

Learn to Read the Signs the Behaviors the emotions

What are the warning signs of human trafficking based on sexual exploitation of a Minor?

Parents, teachers, employers, counselors, nurses, doctors, other professionals, and friends of trafficking victims are often unaware of the abuse that is happening right in front of their eyes.

  • Running away from home
  • Truancy, chronic absenteeism
  • Sudden drop in grades
  • Change of friends or alienation from regular friends
  • Rumors among students regarding sex activities
  • Sudden change in behavior, attitud,e or attire
  • Anger, aggression, suicidal, or fear
  • Claims of a new and mysterious/secreti””e””boyfr”  n”””
  • Use of drugs (i.e., marijuana and ecstasy)
  • Weight loss
  • Bruises or other physical trauma
  • New cell phone or multiple cell phones
  • Use of terminology related to prostitution
  • Tattoos that are related to pimping/prostitution activity
  • Secrecy with social media and phone

A more extensive list with indicators of human trafficking based on forced labor or servitude and sex exploitation can be found on the National Resource Center (NHTRC).

https://www.sdcda.org/preventing/human-trafficking/nhtrc-info#nhtrc_overview