What Should You Do If You Suspect Someone May Be A Victim Of Human Trafficking?

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Human Trafficking can happen to anyone and in any community. Therefore,  it is important to know what signs to look for and what to do if you suspect someone may be a victim of Human Trafficking. Knowing what to do can help to keep those around you safe.

What signs should you look for in a suspected victim? 

• You may notice the person becoming more anxious, fearful, or withdrawn in situations she/he was once more comfortable and involved in previously. 

• The person may avoid eye contact, let others speak for her/him, or look to someone else for the answers on what to say. 

• The suspected victim may not be having her/his basic needs met or have injuries that have not been treated. 

• In addition, you may notice sudden mood or behavior changes. 

Although these warning signs may not prove that the person is being Human Trafficked it does show us that this person needs help.

The Department of Homeland Security recommends asking yourself the following questions if you suspect someone may be a victim of Human Trafficking:

• Does the person appear disconnected from family, friends, community organizations, or houses of worship?

• If a child, has the child stopped attending school?

• Has the person had a sudden or dramatic change in behavior?

• Is the person engaged in commercial sex acts?

• Is the person disoriented or confused, or showing signs of mental or physical abuse?

• Does the person have bruises in various stages of healing?

• Is the person fearful, timid, or submissive?

• Does the person show signs of having been denied food, water, sleep, or medical care?

• Is the person often in the company of someone to whom he or she defers? Or someone who seems to be in control of the situation, e.g., where she/he goes or who she/he talks to?

• Does the person appear to be coached on what to say?

• Is the person living in unsuitable conditions?

• Does the person lack personal possessions and appear not to have a stable living situation?

• Does the person have freedom of movement? Can the person freely leave where they live? Are there unreasonable security measures?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it is best to report your suspicions and to get help for the suspected victim. Do not try approaching the suspect on your own, as this can put you in danger. Instead, call the police or call 1-866-347-2423  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tip Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. For those living outside of the United States, you can access the tip line by calling 802-872-6199. 

If you are a victim and need help, contact the national human trafficking hotline (NHTH) by calling 1-888-373-7888 or texting HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733). The NHTH can help connect victims with service providers in the area and provide training, technical assistance, and other resources. The NHTH is a national, toll-free hotline available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. The NHTH is not a law enforcement or immigration authority and is operated by a nongovernmental organization funded by the Federal government.

Reference:

Homeland Security. (2025, November 18). How to identify and report Human trafficking | homeland security. https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/identify-victim