Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is when someone is exploited by a trafficker to perform sexual acts in exchange for money. However, all of that money is then taken by the trafficker. The trafficker will use control, threats, and manipulation to force the individual to continue performing these sexual acts against their will.

Sex trafficking can occur both in person and online, often starting with the trafficker gaining the trust of their victim. Typically, the trafficker will provide basic needs like food, housing, or even drugs. Once that trust is established, the trafficker will begin to exploit their victim’s vulnerabilities and pressure them into selling sex.

Common Signs of Sex Trafficking

Based on the fact that no two human trafficking situations are exactly the same, the signs and warnings may be difficult to detect. However, it is important to familiarize yourself with common indicators that you or someone you know may be being trafficked. It is also important to understand that one sign alone may not indicate that human trafficking is occurring but it can make you more aware of your or someone you know’s particular situation.

Pulling away from friends and family that they were once close with
Presence of a new and/or fast-moving relationship whether it is romantic or platonic
Suddenly becoming absent from home, school, work, and/or social gatherings they were once actively present at
When questioned, their answers seem well-scripted and/or rehearsed
They appear to have limited or no control over where they can go, what they can do, or who they can hang out with
Suddenly having possessions that they normally could not afford
A recent change in appearance that includes: new or different clothes, accessories, electronics, makeup, nails, etc
Acting nervous, scared, and/or uncomfortable
Having tattoos of a trafficker’s name or symbol
Suddenly unable to access ID or other personal identifying documents
Showing signs of abuse: exhaustion, cuts, bruises, etc
A new or increased use of drugs and/or alcohol

Example Sex Trafficking Scenario

No two sex trafficking situations are the exact same. But, many have similar commonalities.

Here is an example scenario when the trafficker poses as a romantic partner initially:

Luring:

Trafficker connects with the individual through someone they know - a friend, acquaintance, family member, etc.
If not through someone they know, it may be online or in vulnerable public spaces like drop-in shelters, schools, youth centers, etc.
Traffickers will at first appear kind, warm, inviting and ensure their target feels seen and valued to establish that trust.
Traffickers will ask specific questions to gather information about what that individual may need the most at that time. Once that information has been obtained they will begin to “take care” of their target.

2. Grooming:

After the trust has been established, they will begin to take on the role of a caring partner. Things like food, housing, gifts will begin to be given to their target as well as promises for a safe and loving future together.
This type of behaviour is used by traffickers to form a sense of dependency from their target.
During this time, the trafficker will often begin to push sexual boundaries and/or pressure their target into perform sexual acts that they didn’t do before.

3. Manipulation:

During this stage, there has been a sense of emotional dependence through the overflowing amount of affection, gifts, support, etc.
Now, the trafficker will begin to withhold those things that made their target feel seen.
Potentially, the trafficker will utilize a sense of debt into the relationship in which the individual now owes them for the gifts that were given and/or has to help pay for the future that was promised.
They may withhold their victim’s ID, limit who they can communicate with, or where they can go. Any pushback from them will result in emotional blackmail, threats, or guilt to maintain that control.

4. Exploitation:

The trafficker will now start pressuring their victim to sell sex in order to bring in a certain amount of money. They will be convinced that by doing so, their basic needs will be met and avoid punishment.
Sometimes the trafficker will begin to use drugs to make their victim easier to control and more dependent on them.
The individual being exploited will often be given a false sense of freedom while providing these sexual services, but the reality is that they have little to no choice.

5. Recruiting:

Eventually, the trafficking may begin to encourage the individual to recruit others to perform these services in exchange for a reduced quota, less threats, or less violence.
This can amplify the victim’s guilt and shame after recruiting more individuals and make it harder for them to be able to leave or ask for help.

Feel Familiar?

If any of this information feels familiar to your situation or someone that you know - there is help available to you. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7 and is free and confidential. They are not the government or law enforcement but are there to explore options that may be available to you. You are not alone.

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