
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).
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.
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