Victims of Human Trafficking

It is important to remember that even if you see several of these signs, it does not necessarily mean that someone is being trafficked. But if you suspect that this is the case, do not confront the alleged trafficker or try to rescue the alleged victim; Call the emergency services or alert the airport authorities.  

WARNING SIGNS:  

1. The traveler’s clothing is not suitable for the route on which he will travel 

You might immediately notice that a traveler is carrying few or no belongings. The victims could be less dressed than their companions. They could wear clothing of an inappropriate size or inappropriate for the climate of the place to which they will travel.  

2. They have a tattoo with a barcode or the word “Daddy.” 

Many people have tattoos, so it is evident that a tattoo is not an indicator on its own. Still, traffickers or pimps feel they own their victims, so a tattoo in the form of a barcode, a tattoo that says Daddy, or even a man’s name could indicate that that person is a victim.  

3. They do not know the details of their departure point, destination or flight information 

Traffickers use various tools to avoid suspicion of their crime and to keep victims enslaved. Some traffickers do not tell their victims where they are, where they are taking them, or what work they will be given. Since the victims do not have the means to get home or to pay for things like food, they must depend on the traffickers to get ahead, forcing them to continue in that situation.  

4. What they say seems planned, or their story has inconsistencies 

Sometimes traffickers instruct victims to say certain things in public to avoid suspicion. A traveler whose story seems too designed could be trying to hide the real reason for his trip and could merely be reciting what the dealer told him to say.  

5. They cannot move freely through the airport or the plane; they are controlling, closely monitoring or following 

Trafficked people sometimes carry guardians. A trafficker will try to make sure that the victim does not escape or ask the authorities for help.  

6. They fear talking about themselves in front of other people, direct any attempt at conversation to someone who seems to have control over them 

Fear and intimidation are two of the tools that traffickers use to control the people they hold in slavery. Traffickers often warn victims to avoid interacting with people because the victim might say something that raises suspicions about their safety and freedom.  

7. Child trafficking 

A child who is being trafficked for sexual exploitation could be dressed sexually or appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.  

A child may appear to be malnourished or show signs of physical or sexual abuse, such as bruises, scars, or cigarette burns.