Human Trafficking 101
What is human trafficking?
Human trafficking — sometimes called “trafficking in persons” — is a crime. It occurs when someone is recruited, transported, harbored, or obtained through force, fraud, coercion, or deception for the purpose of exploitation. This exploitation can take the form of forced labor, involuntary servitude, or commercial sexual exploitationears.
Who can be trafficked?
There is no single “type” of victim. People of any age, gender, race, immigration status, socioeconomic background, or nationality can become victims of trafficking. Traffickers often target individuals who are vulnerable — for example, people facing economic hardship, isolation, housing instability, prior abuse, or other life challenges.
How trafficking often works
Traffickers use various tactics, such as false promises of jobs or a “fresh start,” manipulation, threats, isolation, debt, or psychological abuse, to gain and keep control. Sometimes traffickers pose as employers, partners, or acquaintances. Victims may be hidden in plain sight, in homes, workplaces, or businesses, and may not be transported or moved far.
Forms of trafficking
Sex trafficking — coercing or deceiving someone into engaging in commercial sex. This includes situations where a minor is involved, which is trafficking regardless of coercion.
Labor trafficking — forcing or deceiving someone into labor or services under exploitative conditions, often with little or no pay, restricted freedom, debt bondage, or abuse.
Trafficking and domestic or intimate-partner violence
Trafficking does not always involve strangers. Often, traffickers are known to the victims, such as intimate partners, family members, or acquaintances. When trafficking occurs in these situations, it may overlap with other forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, or economic violence. These scenarios share many similarities with domestic or sexual violence.
How trafficking often works
Traffickers use various tactics, such as false promises of jobs or a “fresh start,” manipulation, threats, isolation, debt, or psychological abuse, to gain and keep control. Sometimes traffickers pose as employers, partners, or acquaintances. Victims may be hidden in plain sight, in homes, workplaces, or businesses, and may not be transported or moved far.
Why awareness matters
Because traffickers often use coercion, threats, isolation, or manipulation, victims frequently feel powerless, ashamed, or afraid to come forward. Many do not identify themselves as victims. Trafficking can occur in local communities, cities, or rural areas, not just in distant places. Recognizing the signs, understanding what trafficking truly involves, and knowing that help is available can save lives.
What you can do?
If you suspect someone may be a victim of human trafficking:
You can reach out to support services (like ours at AEDV) or report to law enforcement.
Offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to talk.
Encourage access to medical care, counseling, legal support, or emergency shelter.
Share reliable information. Educating yourself and others helps protect your community.