Recognizing the early warning signs — in schools, communities, and among friends — is one of the most powerful ways we can protect the people we love.
A close friend becomes distant or changes behavior drastically — has an older boyfriend and is pulling away from their normal life at home or school.
A new friend takes particular interest in you or a friend by buying expensive items, being the "perfect" partner, or attempting to alienate you/your friend from loved ones.
A child is repeatedly running away from home or staying away from home and not disclosing their whereabouts at night.
A person seems to have no say in their daily lives — they are controlled by an older friend/boyfriend who answers for them, makes their appointments, or controls their money and ownership.
A child has new and expensive items but not the normal monetary capacity to purchase them.
Someone asks you for a favor that makes you uncomfortable — having your picture taken or being videoed, touching someone else, or performing a sexual act for someone else.
A home or establishment has multiple and random persons frequenting the area for no particular reason or for a reason that doesn't check out.
Someone threatens to show a picture or video of you or a friend.
Someone is asking for pictures on social media or through texting.
A friend is particularly tired during the day, distant, sad, or missing their normal daily routine.
Always be COMPASSIONATE.
Stay CONNECTED. Provide CARE.
Never try to restrain a victim, a predator, trafficker, or abuser.
If the victim is a minor, contact Law Enforcement or the HT Hotline. Adults are mandatory reporters if they suspect the abuse, neglect, or trafficking of a minor.
Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline if a victim asks for help.
Example: they mention multiple homes, are always moving neighborhoods or towns, or home is unsafe for children.
Example: appears hesitant or withdrawn, does not respond when spoken to, or another speaks for them.
Example: fidgety, overly aware/anxious, or is numb and distant to surroundings.
Example: bruising around the arms, shoulder, neck, or face; malnourished.
Example: tattoos of initials, barcodes, crowns, currency, gang signs, etc.
Example: visitors or children are frequently circulating in and out of the house.
