Know the Signs
What are common warning signs that a child may be targeted for trafficking?
Sudden changes in behavior, new expensive items, secretive online activity, avoiding family, or signs of physical abuse.
What should kids never share online?
Personal information like home address, school name, phone number, and private photos.
True or False: Most traffickers are strangers.
False. Many traffickers are people the victim knows, like family members, friends, or trusted adults.)
Who can children talk to if they feel unsafe?
Parents, teachers, school counselors, law enforcement, or child advocacy groups.
What is one way parents can educate kids about trafficking?
Open conversations, role-playing safety scenarios, and teaching about online risks.
What are signs that someone is a trafficker?
They manipulate victims with gifts, threats, or fake relationships; restrict their communication; and control their movements.
What is a red flag when talking to someone online?
If they ask to meet in person, send inappropriate messages, or pressure for secrecy.
What should kids do if a stranger approaches them?
Keep their distance, avoid conversation, find a trusted adult, and call 911 if in danger.
What is the national human trafficking hotline number?
1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733.
What should kids do if they feel uncomfortable in any situation?
Trust their instincts, remove themselves from the situation, and tell a trusted adult.
What type of places are traffickers known to target children?
Malls, parks, schools, online chat rooms, social media, and bus stations.
What are good privacy settings to use on social media?
Private accounts, disabling location services, and only accepting known friend requests.
How do traffickers manipulate children they know?
By using emotional abuse, blackmail, financial dependency, or threats.
What are some safe places kids can go if they are in danger?
Police stations, schools, churches, and designated safe places like businesses with “Safe Place” signs.
How can communities help prevent trafficking?
Awareness campaigns, school programs, and reporting suspicious activity.
What are some deceptive tactics traffickers use to lure victims?
False job offers, modeling scams, fake friendships, and promises of love or protection.
Why is it important to talk with children about online dangers?
Many traffickers use social media to recruit victims by pretending to be friends or influencers.
What is the "safe word" strategy, and how can it help?
A pre-arranged word between parents and kids to signal danger without alerting others.
What should kids do if they suspect a friend is being trafficked?
Tell a trusted adult, avoid confronting the trafficker, and contact authorities.
What is the role of businesses in stopping trafficking?
Training employees to recognize signs, reporting suspicious activity, and supporting prevention programs.
What is "grooming" and why is it dangerous?
A method traffickers use to build trust and emotional dependency before exploitation.
What is an "Internet Safety Plan" for families?
Guidelines for social media, gaming, and messaging apps that ensure safe online behavior.
What is a myth about human trafficking?
That it only happens through kidnapping—most cases involve coercion and manipulation, not force.
What are some organizations that help prevent child trafficking?
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Human Trafficking Hotline, Department of Justice, DeliverFund
What’s the most important thing to remember about human trafficking prevention?
Awareness, vigilance, and communication can save lives.