Know what to look for.
According to the National Human Trafficking Statistics Report, the top five risk factors for human trafficking in the U.S. are:
- Recent migration/relocation
- Substance use
- Runaway/homeless youth
- Mental health concerns
- Involvement in the child welfare system
Additional Risk Factors
- Individuals experiencing poverty &/or homelessness
- Person or family history of abuse/neglect/substance abuse
- Personal or family history of untreated mental health issues
- Isolated/Marginalized populations
- Domestic Workers and Sex Industry Workers
- Migrant/Seasonal Workers/ Workers with temporary work visas
- Recently Resettled Refugees/Individuals recruited from camps
- Undocumented workers & other unauthorized workers (e.g. visitor or student visa)
- Workers who work in hazardous/ dangerous industries
- Individuals whose families depend on their remittances to survive
- Individuals from countries experiencing civil war or state-sanctioned violence
The most common control tactics of traffickers include physical and emotional abuse and threats, isolation from friends and family, and economic abuse. They make promises about things like providing housing or employment, which allows them to take control. Victims become trapped and afraid to leave for many reasons, including fear for their safety or the safety of their family.
Key Services Needed
- Basic needs (i.e. medical attention, food, toiletries, clothing, etc.)
- Legal Representation (including immigration, victim defendant representation, and family law services)
- Emergency shelter and transitional housing
- Victim Advocacy
- Safe community connections
- Life skills, educational, and vocational training
- Ongoing culturally-sensitive support to deal with the effects of trauma (e.g. therapy, counseling, case management, mentorship)
- English language lessons
- Interpretation
- Long-term housing/placement
- Immigration and visa services (including law enforcement certification for U & T visas, and Continued Presence (CP)
Do you believe someone is a victim of Human Trafficking?
If they are in immediate danger, call 911.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
Call: 888-373-7888
Text: BeFree (233733) (Text “HELP” or “INFO”)
Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (Minor Victim)
Call: 1-800-800-5556
Use the term “human trafficking” when reporting.
