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Technology has woven its way into our lives and is one of the critical aspects and symbols of the twenty-first century. Technological advancements help us in many ways, but they can also create a dangerous place where traffickers can recruit victims. The internet is a straightforward method for traffickers because of the lack of physical contact, and they commonly use online webcams, chatting websites, and phone lines to attract their victims. Traffickers use social media to get an insight into a victim's personal life and determine the best way to manipulate them. For example, when they see somebody being vulnerable online, they may approach them, trying to help. However, instead of helping, the victim will be wrapped in a world of dark manipulation and false promises. Human traffickers also make websites that can help their evil business. Their websites are easy to hide and exploit their victims even more. The internet will also constantly re-upload their posts, leading to more abuse. Also, traffickers can make vast amounts of illegal money using cryptocurrency. The COVID-19 pandemic did not help ease this situation; screen time was increasing. In 2020, there was a 125% increase in online recruitment through Facebook and a 95% increase through Instagram. Furthermore, in 2020 Snapchat became an increasingly popular method of trafficking. Snapchat is a top-rated social media app for minors and one of the world's most popular apps, but there were many inappropriate interactions. The tricky thing with Snapchat is that the messages will delete automatically, providing the victim with a false sense of security. However, this makes it easier for traffickers to keep their business secrets. Dating apps are also an effortless way for traffickers to recruit victims. They will pretend to be someone else and engulf the victim in a dark world. Job sites are also very commonly used by traffickers. They will use those websites to create false job opportunities, which usually turns into labor trafficking. However, even though the internet is dangerous, it is also revolutionary. We can use technology to spread awareness of this topic and keep others safe. Listed below are some commonly used websites/apps traffickers use: Instagram Facebook Snapchat WhatsApp Tinder Grindr Plenty of Fish Meetme.com Kik

By definition, labor trafficking is a form of human trafficking where victims are made to perform a task through force, fraud or coercion. People are exploited through services and might not realize that they are victims because they are manipulated into a world filled with false promises. Traffickers take in vulnerable people and try to make them feel as if they are helping them, when in reality they are creating a very traumatizing experience. Children are also primary victims of labor trafficking. Understanding how human trafficking works can help us identify victims and get them to safety. Victims of labor trafficking are often isolated either emotionally or physically, but not always. Listed below are some common red flags to help you identify a possible victim. Are they working in dangerous/unsafe conditions? Are they receiving threats from their boss? Do they feel pressure to stay in the job? Are they getting paid enough? Listed below are common ways traffickers abuse their victims. Recruitment fees and debt bondaging Fradulent job offers Exploitation of addiction Exploitation of disabilities Domestic work in marriage It is important that all citizens are aware of things to look out for to help us combat this situation. We need to bring awareness to the warning signs, and we can improve lives.

A very effective way we can combat human trafficking is by learning to recognize the signs. By detecting these issues we will be able to help victims get the help that they need as soon as possible. If you recognize these signs in a possible victim, DO NOT approach and confront them directly. Doing this will jeopardize your safety as well as the possible victim's. Below this post is a helpful infographic to help you recognize the signs in human trafficking victims. CALL TO REPORT ANY SUSPICIONS: 1-866-347-2423

Human trafficking is, by definition, the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some labor or commercial sex act, and it is the fastest-growing criminal industry in the world. It happens to millions of people everywhere, including the USA. All genders, races, nationalities, and ages can be affected. This wicked business can haunt anybody, primarily preying on hurting and vulnerable people going through tough times. People are promised a better life and are sucked into a very dark situation. Another issue is that they often suffer in plain sight, blaming themselves. Although someone may look like they are living a normal everyday life, they might need your help. Human Trafficking is known for silencing its victims. Many don’t ask for help for fear of language barriers, law enforcement, threats from their abuser, or possibility of being held hostage. Traffickers use strong psychological and physical violence on their victims, and the experience can be so traumatic that people may not want to reach out for help. That needs to change. We must create a safe space where people can get support and comfort. If you are a victim of human trafficking, you need to remember one crucial thing. It is not your fault.