Know the Threat
Child Trafficking
How children are recruited and controlled, the signs that something is wrong, and exactly who to call.
What It Is
A Crime Hidden in Plain Sight
Child trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, harboring, or control of a child for forced labor or commercial sexual exploitation. Under U.S. law, any commercial sex act involving a minor is trafficking — no force, fraud, or coercion has to be proven, and a child can never legally consent.
It happens in cities, suburbs, and rural towns alike, and the person who recruits a child is usually someone the child already knows and trusts.
The Scope
Who Is Targeted
Traffickers seek out children already under strain — kids in unstable housing, foster care, or running from abuse, and those isolated or hungry for attention.
Who Recruits
The recruiter is frequently a boyfriend, an “older friend,” a relative, or a peer who was trafficked first — not a stranger.
Where It Hides
Victims are often hidden in plain sight — in homes, hotels, restaurants, salons, and online ads.
Who It Hurts Most
Black and brown children are over-represented among victims and under-served by the systems meant to find them.
Warning Signs
A sudden new, controlling, much-older “partner” or friend
Unexplained money, gifts, phones, hotel keys, or expensive items
Scripted answers about where they’ve been; someone speaking for them
Running away or disappearing for days, then returning withdrawn or fearful
Branding tattoos, injuries, or exhaustion
Not being allowed to keep their own ID or money
What You Can Do
Trust the Pattern
One sign alone may mean nothing. Several together mean it’s time to act. You don’t need proof to make a call.
Write It Down
Keep notes — dates, names, vehicles, locations, descriptions. Details fade fast and can help investigators.
Make the Call
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline — free, confidential, 24/7.
Where to Report
Call or Text
National Human Trafficking Hotline
1-888-373-7888Text 233733 — 24/7 and confidential
Call NowImportant Disclaimer
This website is for informational purposes only. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.