Recently, we sat down with Heidi Chance, SME Human Trafficking Undercover Detective/Founder, Achanceforawareness.com after sharing her expert insights with ASIS International's Phoenix Chapter.
She is a 25-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department, and dedicated her career to combatting sex trafficking, notably serving 13 years in the H.E.A.T (Human Exploitation and Trafficking) Unit. As an expert in forensic child interviews, abuse identification, online child protection, and undercover operations, she's a sought-after speaker, addressing law enforcement and many conferences. Heidi is featured in the PBS documentary "Sex Trafficking in America" and now uses her platform at Achanceforawareness.com to raise public awareness and provide training and consulting services to law enforcement, contributing to the fight against sex trafficking.
A recent social media video mischaracterized potential human trafficking indicators, presenting misleading and inaccurate information about situational threats. While personal safety awareness is critical, the content conflated unrelated scenarios with genuine trafficking risk factors, potentially undermining efforts to educate the public about actual human trafficking warning signs.
"Silence helps the trafficker, not the victim. Speaking up, staying informed, and taking action are how we break the chains of modern slavery," Nadia Murad, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and human trafficking survivor.
There are a number of things to look for when suspecting that someone you may know is involved in being trafficked. As a retired undercover Human Trafficking Detective, I would say that this exhaustive list will give you a good idea about actual indicators of Human Trafficking happening every day under our noses in the United States and across the world.
Recognizing Human Trafficking: Hidden Signs in Plain Sight
Human trafficking often occurs in plain view, yet its signs can be subtle and complex. Understanding these indicators through real-world contexts can help communities identify and respond to potential trafficking situations.
Control and Isolation
At the core of trafficking is control. Victims often show signs of being monitored - their calls are always on speakerphone, they're rarely alone, and they may be unable to speak freely. They might lack basic documentation like ID or birth certificates, effectively binding them to their trafficker. Their movements are typically restricted and carefully watched.
Financial Red Flags
Financial control is a powerful tool used by traffickers. Watch for concerning patterns: sudden unexplained wealth, expensive gifts "with no strings attached," or complete lack of access to personal finances. Some victims possess multiple hotel keys or travel constantly without a clear purpose. Others may be unable to explain their work situation or have unusual working hours.
Changes in Behavior and Appearance
Trafficking often leaves visible marks on its victims. Physical abuse may be evident, but subtler signs include dramatic changes in dress, poor hygiene, sudden weight loss, or malnourishment. Victims might avoid eye contact, seem fearful of law enforcement, or give rehearsed-sounding answers to basic questions.
Digital and Social Media Footprints
Modern trafficking often leaves digital traces. Traffickers may maintain social media profiles glorifying "pimp culture" or depicting a trafficking lifestyle. Victims might show new tattoos symbolizing ownership, such as crowns or dollar signs, or use specific terminology in online conversations that suggests trafficking.
Living Conditions and Movement
Trafficking victims often live in poor conditions, sometimes with their "employer." They may move frequently between cities or live out of hotels. When traveling, they might be unable to say where they're going or have someone else controlling their movements.
Youth at Risk
Particular attention should be paid to minors showing these signs, especially those involved in commercial sexual activity. Any person under 18 engaged in prostitution or escorting is, by definition, a trafficking victim.
Communication Patterns
Listen for language patterns that may indicate trafficking: referring to a companion as "Daddy," using specific trafficking terminology, or being unable to speak without someone present. Victims may express fear about their situation but be reluctant to seek help.
Understanding these indicators in context, rather than as a simple checklist, helps create a more nuanced awareness of trafficking warning signs. Remember, no single sign definitively proves trafficking, but multiple indicators warrant attention and appropriate reporting to authorities.
Education with accurate information can turn the tide in the fight against Human Trafficking. Misinformation will dilute the public’s understanding and interest in actually recognizing and responding to this issue.
Now what do you do if you think someone you know is exhibiting some of these indicators. There is the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888 or text “INFO” to 233733. But the point I always try to make is that the “hotline” is based out of D.C. so if it is a crime in progress ALWAYS default to calling local law enforcement or 9-1-1.
To learn more about Human Trafficking, and what you can do to be involved in the fight against it, check out here.
Heidi Chance, SME Human Trafficking Undercover Detective/Founder Achanceforawareness.com
Heidi Chance, a 25-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department, dedicated her career to combatting sex trafficking, notably serving 13 years in the H.E.A.T (Human Exploitation and Trafficking) Unit. As an expert in forensic child interviews, abuse identification, online child protection, and undercover operations, she's a sought-after speaker, addressing law enforcement and many conferences. Heidi is featured in the PBS documentary "Sex Trafficking in America" and now uses her platform at Achanceforawareness.com to raise public awareness and provide training and consulting services to law enforcement, contributing to the fight against sex trafficking.
