About Sex Trafficking
Who's at Risk?
While every young person is at risk for trafficking, this is a highly gendered crime. 97% of reported victims are women and girls. 75% of these are under the age of 25. Additionally, 92% of victims knew the person who trafficked them either as a friend, boyfriend/girlfriend, or family member. (www.statscan.gc.ca).
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Vulnerability to trafficking can include youth of any race or gender. However, Indigenous, Black, racialized, LGBTQ+ and youth with histories of abuse, poverty, or neglect are at greater risk.
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Signs of Trafficking
Victims of trafficking may exhibit some or all of these signs. However, someone can be a victim and not exhibit any of these signs.
LIFESTYLE
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New & expensive gifts ​
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​Poor school attendance
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Change in behaviour
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Evidence of being controlled
APPEARANCE
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Dressed inappropriately for the weather
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​Branding tattoos
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Signs of self-harm
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Unexplained bruises, injuries, or burns
DEMEANOR
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Hostile or Angry
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​Anxious & Nervous
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Shy or submissive
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Confused about whereabouts
LANGUAGE
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Speaks openly about sex
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​John, trick, “the life or game”
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Boyfriend “daddy” or “My man”
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Not allowed to speak for themselves