Human trafficking is a growing issue in Canada, it is considered a form of modern day slavery that exploits others for sexual purposes or forced labour (Public Safety Canada). Victims are usually tricked with promises of a better life, only to end up in an unknown environment, as well as trapped in dangerous situations. “Consistent with previous findings, from 2014 to 2024, the vast majority (93%) of identified victims of police-reported human trafficking were women and girls, two-thirds of whom were younger than 25” (Sutton-Preddie, 2025). This is an example out of many as to why recognizing the signs of trafficking, understanding how to avoid it, and building strong connections to others and services are important skills to have in case you were to ever find yourself in this unknown situation.

Human trafficking is an extremely serious crime in which individuals are forced or persuaded into exploitation for sexual or labor purposes, (Public Safety Canada). Victims are mainly lured with false promises of a better life or opportunities, soon finding themselves under the control of traffickers who use manipulation, violence, and isolation to keep them trapped. In Canada, young people are extremely vulnerable, with 70% of trafficking victims under the age of 25 (Peel Region). Easy targets include teenagers, people of a lower class, or histories of abuse, are often targeted, making them easy targets for traffickers who use their emotional and financial weaknesses against them, (Sutton-Preddie, 2024)

Preventing human trafficking starts with being educated and socially aware. Traffickers target people with low self esteem, those struggling with mental health issues, or as mentioned earlier those with a history of abuse (Covenant House Toronto). It’s critical for all individuals to understand how traffickers operate and who their target audience is. Traffickers are also known to use online platforms to be seen as a trusted person, receiving the trust of victims before preying on them. It is very important to know about the risks of interacting with strangers online, reporting suspicious behaviour to a trusted figure of authority, and communicating with others when in uncomfortable situations. Parents or Guardians should be actively involved in their young children or teens lives, keeping them safe online, and educating them on this topic. Doing this will help others to step up in the case of this situation or even feel more educated and prepared if they witness certain signs.

Human trafficking remains one of the most urgent and cruel crimes in Canada today. The increase in trafficking cases, especially among young people, connotes the need for a greater awareness, and source of prevention. By again continuously educating ourselves about the signs of trafficking, we can help prevent further exploitation. It is vital that individuals who recognize the signs immediately contact authorities or helplines such as the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline (Peel Region). Reporting suspected cases can provide victims with the resources they need to escape and recover from these traumatic and ongoing experiences.

If you suspect someone is being trafficked, or if you find yourself in the shoes of a victim, don’t hesitate to receive help. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-833-900-1010, (Peel Region), and Kids Help Phone can be reached at 1-800-668-6868 for support which remains completely anonymous, (Kids Help Phone). The fight against human trafficking is one that requires all individuals to remain informed, alert, and up to date. We can fight to help prevent this crime and create a safer, more supportive environment for all human beings.