Awareness
Recognizing the Signs of Sex Trafficking in Canada
Trafficking rarely looks like the movies. Learn the warning signs of control, behaviour and appearance that may point to exploitation.
Illustrative photo; does not depict SEEDS residents.
Human trafficking happens in Canadian communities, often hidden in plain sight. Most people never recognize it because it rarely looks like what we expect.
According to Statistics Canada, from 2013–2023, 93% of police-reported victims were women and girls, and 91% knew the person accused of trafficking them.
“Exploitation often begins with someone the victim trusts.”
Warning signs to watch for
- Control: always escorted, without a phone or ID, cut off from family and friends, moving frequently.
- Behaviour: anxious, fearful, avoiding eye contact, letting others speak for them.
- Appearance: clothing out of context, unexplained expensive items, bruising or malnourishment.
This is not an exhaustive list. If you are worried about someone, reach out. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
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