Modern Day Slavery = When victims are controlled and exploited, often through coercion, deception, or violence, and are deprived of their freedom to choose their work, residence, or personal/sexual relationships.
Types of Slavery
Human Trafficking
Sex Trafficking
Forced Labor
Debt Bondage
Descent-Based Slavery
Child Slavery
Forced & Early Marriage
Domestic Servitude
50%
of victims are trafficked into sexual exploitation.
73%
of human trafficking profits are from sex trafficking.
28%
of trafficking victims are under the age of 18.

Labor & Sex Trafficking Victims
of human and sex trafficking victims are

71%
Women & Girls
90%
of male trafficking victims
go unreported.
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Why does this happen?
Cultural expectations about masculinity can make it difficult for men and boys to recognize or admit exploitation. Fear of shame, judgment, or disbelief may prevent them from seeking help. Male victims are more often trafficked for labor in industries such as agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. These forms of trafficking are often less visible and harder to identify. Anti-trafficking efforts have historically focused more on women and girls, particularly in sex trafficking, leading to fewer resources and services tailored to male victims. Men may be less likely to report trafficking due to stigma, distrust of authorities, immigration concerns, or fear they will not be taken seriously.
The number of boys identified as trafficking victims increased more than fivefold between 2004 and 2020 according to the UNODC Global Report on Trafficking in Persons.

Understanding Youth Exploitation
Youth trafficking often begins with manipulation, trust, and meeting an emotional need rather than physical abduction.
As online communities and social media platforms geared toward youth continue to grow, traffickers increasingly use these spaces to build relationships, gain trust, and exploit vulnerabilities. Understanding how exploitation happens online and in person is an important step in protecting young people and recognizing warning signs early.
Trafficking often begins with grooming, not kidnapping.
Traffickers commonly build trust through attention, gifts, relationships, promises, or emotional
support before exploitation occurs.
Online spaces can increase vulnerability.
Social media, gaming platforms, messaging apps, and youth-centered online communities are
often used to contact, manipulate, and isolate young people.
Any young person can be targeted.
While certain risk factors may increase vulnerability, trafficking affects youth across all backgrounds,
communities, and socioeconomic groups.
Education and open conversations matter.
Teaching youth about healthy relationships, online safety, boundaries, and manipulation tactics can
help them recognize warning signs early.
Strong support systems help prevent exploitation.
Safe adults, community connection, emotional support, and access to resources can reduce i
solation and help protect vulnerable youth.
FAQ'S
SIGNS OF TRAFFICKING
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Physcial & Behavioral Issues
Victims may have bruises, burns, cuts, or signs of malnourishment. They may exhibit fearful or anxious behavior – avoiding eye contact, picking at their skin, nails or hail, etc. Victims may appear to be "on edge" often and may look overworked, sleep-deprived or restless. Victims may also be disoriented, do not know where they are, or seem coached when answering questions.
No Personal Possessions
They may not have access to personal documents like an ID, passport or work papers because their trafficker or "handler" withholds them as a control/abuse tactic and to limit the victim's ability to leave. They may also lack personal possessions like clothing or sentimental items.
Sudden Change in Behavior
The individual may exhibit an abrupt change in their behavior and social skills. They may suddenly avoid eye contact, avoid social interaction, or showcase signs of confusion, fear, anxiety or hyper-vigilance.
Lack of Control
Someone else might speak for them in social settings and won't leave their side even in "personal" situations. They may have unusual restrictions like not being allowed to speak freely, leave freely, make phone calls, or have access to money.
Poor Health & Hygiene
The individual may exhibit signs of poor health and hygiene due to controlled/limited access to water, food, hygiene essentials and health care.
Specific Sex Trafficking Signs
The victim may have multiple hotel key cards or stays in different locations frequently. They may be accompanied by a controlling older person, often referred to as a "boyfriend" or "manager." They often wear inappropriate clothing for the weather or location (e.g., revealing clothes at odd times). They may carry large amounts of cash, but have no control over their own finances. They may seem afraid to use the words "pimp," "trafficking," or "abuse." They may experience frequent STDs, pregnancies, or forced abortions. There may be signs of drug dependence or forced substance use. They may be advertised online for "escort" or "massage" services.
If you see something, say something. Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 (or text "HELP" to 233733).
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