Technology and Human Trafficking

Technology has woven its way into our lives and is one of the critical aspects and symbols of the twenty-first century. Technological advancements help us in many ways, but they can also create a dangerous place where traffickers can recruit victims.

The internet is a straightforward method for traffickers because of the lack of physical contact, and they commonly use online webcams, chatting websites, and phone lines to attract their victims. Traffickers use social media to get an insight into a victim's personal life and determine the best way to manipulate them. For example, when they see somebody being vulnerable online, they may approach them, trying to help. However, instead of helping, the victim will be wrapped in a world of dark manipulation and false promises.

Human traffickers also make websites that can help their evil business. Their websites are easy to hide and exploit their victims even more. The internet will also constantly re-upload their posts, leading to more abuse. Also, traffickers can make vast amounts of illegal money using cryptocurrency.

The COVID-19 pandemic did not help ease this situation; screen time was increasing. In 2020, there was a 125% increase in online recruitment through Facebook and a 95% increase through Instagram. Furthermore, in 2020 Snapchat became an increasingly popular method of trafficking.

Snapchat is a top-rated social media app for minors and one of the world's most popular apps, but there were many inappropriate interactions. The tricky thing with Snapchat is that the messages will delete automatically, providing the victim with a false sense of security. However, this makes it easier for traffickers to keep their business secrets.

Dating apps are also an effortless way for traffickers to recruit victims. They will pretend to be someone else and engulf the victim in a dark world. Job sites are also very commonly used by traffickers. They will use those websites to create false job opportunities, which usually turns into labor trafficking.

However, even though the internet is dangerous, it is also revolutionary. We can use technology to spread awareness of this topic and keep others safe.

Listed below are some commonly used websites/apps traffickers use: