Sex Trafficking: What You Need to Know, How to Get Help
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If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
Sex trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery. It is a severe human rights violation that affects people of all ages, genders, races, and backgrounds — though it disproportionately impacts women, girls, and marginalized communities. Awareness, education, and access to resources are among the most powerful tools we have to combat it.
What Is Sex Trafficking?
Sex trafficking occurs when someone is compelled through force, fraud, or coercion to engage in commercial sex acts. It can happen in plain sight — in hotels, online, in neighborhoods, and even in homes. Traffickers often use manipulation, false promises, romantic relationships, or threats to control their victims.
Warning Signs
Recognizing trafficking can save a life. Watch for:
- Someone who appears disoriented, fearful, or unable to speak freely
- A person who is not in control of their own ID or money
- Signs of physical abuse, malnourishment, or exhaustion
- Someone who is scripted in their responses or monitored by another person
- A minor involved in commercial sex — this is always trafficking, regardless of consent
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help
You do not have to face this alone. Trained advocates are available to help with safety planning, legal support, housing, and healing.
Crisis Resources
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 | Text HELP to 233733 | humantraffickinghotline.org
- BeFree (text line): Text BeFree to 233733
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- Local survivor advocacy organizations can provide trauma-informed care and long-term support
For Survivors
If you have experienced trafficking, your healing matters. What happened to you was not your fault. Recovery is possible, and you deserve a life of safety, dignity, and wholeness.
Explore our Sex Trafficking hub for survivor resources, advocacy tools, and community support.