What to look for. What to do. Why it matters.
Human trafficking hides in plain sight.
That’s one of the most dangerous truths about it—it doesn’t always look like what we expect. Victims can be sitting in classrooms, walking through shopping malls, living in quiet neighborhoods, or scrolling next to us on social media.
If we want to stop trafficking, we have to learn to see it.
This post is here to help you recognize common red flags of sex trafficking and give you the tools to respond wisely and safely.
Behavioral Red Flags
These signs often show up in how a person acts or communicates:
- Seems unusually fearful, anxious, depressed, or submissive
- Avoids eye contact or lets another person speak for them
- Is unable to speak freely or appears coached on what to say
- Has inconsistencies in their story about where they live, work, or go to school
- Expresses loyalty to someone who is hurting or exploiting them
Physical or Environmental Red Flags
Things that may be visible in a person’s surroundings or appearance:
- Lack of personal possessions, ID, or money
- Signs of physical abuse, malnourishment, or exhaustion
- Living or working in the same place; rarely allowed to go out alone
- Frequent hotel stays or being transported to multiple cities
- Working long or odd hours in industries like restaurants, construction, domestic work, or commercial sex
Relationship Red Flags
Traffickers often control and manipulate victims through emotional and psychological means. Watch for:
- A much older “boyfriend” or “girlfriend” who is controlling or secretive
- Constant check-ins via phone or text with someone monitoring their movements
- A person who appears overly defensive or secretive about a relationship
- Someone promising jobs, housing, or travel that seems too good to be true
Online Red Flags
Trafficking recruitment often begins on social media and gaming platforms. Be alert to:
- Teens chatting with older or unknown people online
- Secretive behavior or new social media accounts
- Sudden changes in behavior, dress, or communication style
- Receiving gifts, money, or travel from someone they’ve never met in person
Important Context: One Sign Is Not Enough
It’s important to note that not every red flag is proof of trafficking—but multiple signs together should raise concern. When in doubt, it’s okay to speak up or seek guidance.
What Should You Do If You See the Signs?
If you suspect someone is being trafficked:
- Do not approach the suspected trafficker or try to intervene directly.
- Document what you see—time, location, description, license plate, etc.
- Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline:
📞 1-888-373-7888
📱 Or text “BEFREE” (233733)
🌐 humantraffickinghotline.org
If it’s an emergency, always call 911 first.
Red Flags Are Warnings—Not Labels
Learning to recognize red flags isn’t about labeling people. It’s about becoming better equipped to notice when something isn’t right—and doing something about it.
Because awareness can be the first step toward rescue.
And your awareness could be someone else’s way out.
You Can Be a Lighthouse
At Lighthouse for Life, we train everyday people to recognize trafficking and respond with compassion, clarity, and courage. If you’re interested in hosting or attending a training, please reach out. The more eyes open, the more lives can be saved!
Check out our resources page on our website for more information: RESOURCES
Thank you for shining The Light with us.
Together, we’re helping survivors find freedom—and giving darkness no place to hide.