SIGNS OF TRAFFICING

POSSESSIONS

LACK OF CONTROL

Recognizing key indicators of human trafficking is the first step in identifying victims and can help save a life. 

Here are some common indicators to help recognize human trafficking:

Some indicators raise a red flag that a person may be a victim of human trafficking. Take notice in situations where a person is/has:

PHYSICAL

• Has injuries or other signs of abuse and is reluctant to explain them.
• Appears malnourished.
• Branded or marked with a tattoo, such as a man’s name, symbol of money, or a barcode.
• Dressed in a provocative manner or in the same clothes, regardless of weather or circumstance.

POSSESSIONS

• Has very few personal possessions.
• Has an unexplained, sudden increase in money, clothing, or possessions like jewelry without explanation.
• Doesn’t carry identification.
• Has a number of hotel keys or key cards.
• Has a prepaid cell phone.

BEHAVIOR

• Fears authority figures.
• Claims to be an adult, though their appearance suggests adolescence.
• Seems to move frequently from place to place.
• Talks about an older boyfriend or sex with an older man.
• Has inconsistencies in their story.
• Claims to be visiting, and can’t state what city they’re in or for how long.
• Isn’t able to speak for themselves.
• Has sexually explicit profiles on social networking sites.
• Is not enrolled in school or is consistently absent.
• Seems to be withdrawn, depressed, or “checked out.

LACK OF CONTROL

• Accompanied by someone who seems to control their every move.
• Seems scripted in the way they speak.
• Doesn’t have control over their own money.
• Can’t come and go from place to place on their own.

Source: Tennessee Bureau of Investigation

*Not all indicators listed above are present in every human trafficking situation, and the presence or absence of any of the indicators is not necessarily proof of human trafficking.