Jason S. Miyares
Attorney General of Virginia

How to identify human trafficking?

Here are some warning signs provided by Polaris Project

  • Unusual/poor living conditions- including not being able to come and go freely, being severely underpaid, owing a large amount of debt, and unusually high security measures surrounding work and home.

  • Poor mental health or abnormal behavior- including being fearful, anxious, depressed, or submissive, an unusual fear of law enforcement, often avoids eye contact.

  • Poor physical health- including malnourishment and signs of physical abuse.

  • Lack of control- including not controlling money and identification, lack of knowledge regarding residence, and the inability to speak for himself/herself (relies on third-party or translator).

Law enforcement, click here for a tool for identifying trafficking victims and for a pocket card to assess potential trafficking situations.

 

human trafficking hotline: 1-888-373-7888 24 hours, 7 days a week