Sex trafficking is a crime and human rights violation involving the control of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for exploitation (Ontario Government, 2020). Forms of exploitation include sexual exploitation, forced labor, organ trafficking, and domestic servitude. Traffickers often manipulate victims’ vulnerabilities, using psychological tactics and physical threats to maintain control (Ontario Government, 2021).
Vulnerabilities are factors that traffickers exploit to manipulate, control, and coerce victims into exploitative situations. These vulnerabilities can be psychological, social, economic, or physical. Here are some common types of vulnerabilities that traffickers may target:
1. Economic Vulnerabilities
Poverty: Individuals living in poverty may be more susceptible to trafficking because they are seeking ways to improve their financial situation or escape economic hardship.
Lack of Job Opportunities: People who are unemployed or facing unemployment may be tempted/lured by monetary promises.
Isolation: People who are socially isolated (this can include immigrants), those with limited social media, or people who have recently moved to a new area are more vulnerable to trafficking.
Family Issues: Children or young adults from dysfunctional or abusive families may seek out external relationships or "love" outside of the home, making them more susceptible to sex trafficking.
Runaways and Homelessness: Individuals who run away from home or those who are experiencing homelessness may be more likely to be targeted by traffickers, who may offer shelter or a home.
Low Self-Esteem: Individuals with low self-worth may be more easily manipulated or coerced into exploitative situations.
Trauma or Abuse History: Those who have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse are more vulnerable to being trafficked, as they may be more trusting towards potential traffickers.
Mental Health Issues: Individuals with mental health challenges may be exploited by traffickers who take advantage of their inability to resist coercion.
Immigration Status: Immigrants, particularly those who are undocumented or lack legal status, are often targeted because they may fear law enforcement or deportation if they seek help.
Lack of Legal Protection: People in countries or situations with weak legal protections, such as refugees, may be vulnerable to trafficking due to lack of legal recourse or protections.
Age: Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to human trafficking, as they may be more easily manipulated and less likely to recognize danger.
Disabilities: Individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities may be more susceptible to exploitation because they may rely on others for care and may not have the capacity to fully understand the danger and/or risks.
Cultural Norms or Practices: In some cultures or communities, trafficking may be normalized or accepted, increasing the vulnerability of certain people/groups.
Conflict and War: Areas affected by conflict, natural disasters, or political instability often experience heightened levels of trafficking, as displaced individuals and refugees may be vulnerable to exploitation by traffickers promising safety or refuge.
Luring
Traffickers assess and target individuals by exploiting their vulnerabilities. They gain trust by making the victim feel special and collecting personal information for later use (Ontario Government, 2020).
Grooming & Gaming (Honeymoon Stage)
Victims are drawn into dependency through affection and rewards, such as promises of love, financial security, or a better life. Traffickers may also introduce victims to drugs to increase dependency (Ontario Government, 2020).
Coercion & Manipulation
Once victims are attached, traffickers begin to manipulate them emotionally and physically. Tactics include withdrawing affection, desensitizing victims to exploitation, and making them feel indebted (Ontario Government, 2021).
Exploitation
Traffickers fully control victims, exploiting them for profit. They often isolate victims and use threats or financial dependence to maintain control (Ontario Government, 2020).
Recruiting
Some victims are coerced into recruiting others, perpetuating the cycle of trafficking. Traffickers may promise victims reduced exploitation in exchange for recruiting new individuals (Ontario Government, 2021).
There are many signs that someone may be being trafficked. Some of these include:
Looking malnourished
Physical injuries or signs of abuse
Avoiding social interaction and eye contact
Lacking official documents
Tattoos or branding
Isolation
Sudden change in academic performance
If you think that the person is in immediate danger call (911) and do not confront the trafficker directly, you could put yourself or others at risk(Public Safety Canada, 2021) .
You can contact Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline which is 24/7 and use forms to give them tip.
Details required to report include:
how the potential victim became involved in the situation(Public Safety Canada, 2021).
any use of force, fraud, coercion, abuse of trust, abuse of authority, withholding travel documents, or the use of threats by the potential trafficker against the potential victim(Public Safety Canada, 2021).
relationship between potential victims and potential traffickers(Public Safety Canada, 2021).
any signs of mental or physical abuse like stated in the above section; and any concerns for the safety of potential victim(Public Safety Canada, 2021) .
Sex trafficking. (n.d.). ontario.ca. https://www.ontario.ca/page/sex-trafficking
Public Safety Canada. (2021, February 15). How to get help safely. Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/campaigns/human-trafficking/how-get-help.html