“Digital Trafficking: How Social Media Became One of the Biggest Recruitment Tools”

Human trafficking has moved online — and it’s happening faster than parents, teachers, and even law enforcement can keep up.

Where Traffickers Lurk

They use:

• Instagram

• Snapchat

• TikTok

• Gaming platforms

• Dating apps

• Anonymous messaging apps

Anywhere young people interact, traffickers can hide.

Tactics They Use Online

• Fake profiles pretending to be someone their age

• Compliments and emotional connection

• Promises of relationships or modeling jobs

• Requests for private pictures

• Offering quick money for small “favors”

• Manipulating someone into consistent contact

A single conversation can lead to months of control.

Why Youth Are Especially at Risk

Teens are:

• Lonely

• Curious

• Seeking validation

• Struggling with identity

• Easily flattered

• Not fully aware of manipulation tactics

Traffickers know this — and they exploit it.

How to Protect Loved Ones

Encourage:

• Open conversations

• No judgment about online mistakes

• Privacy settings

• Red-flag awareness

• Trusted adults

• Reporting suspicious messages

How HAT Supports Communities

We provide:

• Online safety training

• Workshops for parents

• Survivor stories to educate youth

• Digital safeguarding programs

The internet can be safe — but awareness is the key.