Many myths and misconceptions exists related to human trafficking. Recognizing key indicators of
human trafficking is the first step in identifying victims and saving lives. Not all indicators listed are
present in every trafficking situation, and the presence or absence of any of the indicators is not
necessarily proof of human trafficking.
Pimps/traffickers often exhibit the following behaviors or characteristics:
●Jealous, controlling and violent
●Significantly older than female companions
●Promise things that seem too good to be true
●Encourage victims to engage in illegal activities to achieve their goals and dreams\
●Buys expensive gifts or owns expensive items
●Is vague about his/her profession
●Pushy or demanding about sex
●Encourages inappropriate sexual behavior
●Makes the victim feel responsible for his/her financial stability. Very open about financial matters.
Warning Signs That An Individual Is Being Trafficked:
●Signs of physical abuse such as burn marks, bruises or cuts
●Unexplained absences from class
●Less appropriately dressed than before
●Sexualized behavior
●Overly tired in class
●Withdrawn, depressed, distracted or checked out
●Brags about making or having lots of money
●Displays expensive clothes, accessories or shoes
●New tattoo (tattoos are often used by pimps as a way to brand victims. Tattoos of a name, symbol of
money or barcode could indicate trafficking)
●Older boyfriend or new friends with a different lifestyle
●Talks about wild parties or invites other students to attend parties
●Shows signs of gang affiliation? (ie: a preference for specific colors, notebook doodles of gang
symbols, etc.)
The safety of the public as well as the victim is paramount. Do not attempt to confront a suspected
trafficker directly or alert a victim to any suspicions. It is up to law enforcement to investigate
suspected cases of human trafficking.
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National Human Trafficking Hotline 1 (888) 373-7888 or Polaris BeFree Text Line —
Text "BeFree" to 233733.
National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline — 1-888-373-7888
The National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) 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 National Runaway Switchboard — 1-800-RUN-AWAY
The National Runaway Switchboard serves as the federally-designated national communication system
for homeless and runaway youth. Through hotline and online services, NRS provides crisis intervention,
referrals to local resources, and education and prevention services to youth, families and community
members throughout the country 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
1-866-347-2423 (U.S. & Canada)
1-802-872-6199 (International Calls)