Identifying trafficking is the first step to stopping it. Understanding the signs to look out for could help the most vulnerable people within your community.
Significant Signs
There are a number of signs that are common across all types of exploitation. Including, if a person:
- acts as if instructed by another, as though they are forced or coerced to carry out specific activities
- demonstrates signs of physical or psychological abuse, such as lacking self esteem, seeming anxious, bruising or untreated medical conditions
- seems to be bonded by debt or has money deducted from their salary
- has little or no contact with family or loved ones
- is distrustful of authorities
- has threats made against themselves or family members
- is not in possession of their own legal documents
Specific Signs
Many of the main types of exploitation have significant signs that are specific to them. These include: