The world is becoming far scarier out there. Human trafficking is on the rise and despite all efforts, children and women are being abducted all the time. This is happening all over the world and the women and children are being transported all over the world. They are being forced to become sex slaves, prostitutes, and street beggars. They are used for forced sexual acts as well as forced labor and it’s big business. Recovery can be a long road and the mental, physical, and emotional trauma experienced produces scars that are so deep years of therapy only begin to heal. There are ways to help keep you and your children safe, as well as inform everyone in your family. Education on what to do in various situations is important. We have some tips on what to do to stay safe. We come across many good articles but this article “Sex-Trafficking: A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Your Child” has some great information as well.
Be Aware of your Surroundings
This seems so simple, but yet, many people have their faces buried in the phones and have not a clue of their surroundings. Sitting on a park bench scrolling through social media is not being very aware of your surroundings. And, that’s what you will find at many of our parks with parents taking their children to play. Put the devices away, the sex trafficking industry is counting on you to not be paying attention and it literally can take seconds for them to snatch up a child. Or, they could even take you, while on your device, they are highly trained.
Avoid Walking Alone
This is really important in quiet areas such as alleys or back streets. Avoid walking alone to keep from being forcibly kidnapped. Kidnapping is not just for kids these days, they are looking for young women to add to their workforce. Ensure you are taking precautions when walking across campus as well. They are everywhere and are all cultures and races.
Don’t Easily Trust
Traffickers are tricky and approach you anywhere. They can be on social media, in the mall, or even outside your home. These people are trained to be kind and approachable which is why often times, the victim is taken so easily. They will offer crazy opportunities such as free trips or modeling careers. Women are often times used to recruit more people as they are found to be more trustable than men. But, they too are victims of this crime. Again, they do not have a “look” but come in all shapes, races and sizes so have your guard up.
Act Quickly if Suspicious
If you have a bad gut feeling, act quickly, find a person to tell if in a store. Or go to a building with lots of people if on the streets, find shelter. Call someone that you know and talk to them, having someone on the phone can deter them sometimes. Or call the police. If you feel you are being followed or something is off, it most likely is and it should be reported.
Use Social Media Wisely
Social media is great to interact with family and friends. However, this is a way for people to learn their weaknesses and strengths. They study psychology, and if you post a problem, they may come to you with an amazing solution. Think wisely if that solution even makes sense. People don’t just give away free money or time, remember that. If someone online is offering you help that seems to be a bit over the top, do not accept it. Again, remember to not trust easily and especially online. Online anyone can be anyone, that picture and persona you see may not even be close to what that person is about.
Keep a watch out for any suspicious activity at all time. Not only for you and your children but others as well.