Learn who the victims are

Victims are targeted by traffickers because they are seen as vulnerable. They may be vulnerable due to the following reasons:

- Absence of supportive friends or family

- Financially insecure

- Desperate to leave their current life behind (often victims of physical or sexual abuse)

- Immigration status

Protect yourself from traffickers

Some of this is common sense, other tips you may not know about. However, remember: all it takes is one moment of vulnerability. Always practice safety, never let your guard down. It truly is better to be safe than sorry.

- Safety in numbers: always go out with at least one buddy, preferably a group of people you trust.

- Always stay alert: stay sober, stay off your phone, and walk confidently and quickly, observing your surroundings.

- Select your parking spot carefully: choose a highly visible, well-lit area and avoid parking next to vans, large trucks, or vehicles occupied by someone.

- Beware of strangers: traffickers are not always men; they often use women or the elderly to lure potential victims.

- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is: before you agree to work for a company or an agency, carefully research it and ask around; be especially wary when it comes to businesses such as modeling/acting agencies, massage parlors, childcare/housekeeping, or restaurants.

- If your care breaks down, stay inside, and lock the doors and windows; do not accept rides or help from strangers and do not stop to help others.

- Do not ever allow yourself to be brought to a second location: this is the worst thing you can let happen. Scream and yell. Draw attention to yourself. Make it difficult for them. Traffickers want you alive to make money off you.

Red flags to watch for

Oftentimes, trafficking victims are hiding in plain sight. If you see something that does not sit well with you, take note. The following are some warnings to look for in potential victims of human trafficking. Please remember that every situation is unique, and that some signs may not appear in all cases. The point is, if you feel as though something is not right, trust your instinct.

- Signs of physical abuse or poor hygiene such as: unkempt appearance (unbrushed/missing/chipped teeth, matted/greasy hair, dirt or residue on skin or clothes), bruises, scrapes/cuts/abrasions, marks on wrists/legs (signs of restraint), malnourished appearance (very pale skin, extremely thin, brittle hair/fingernails.

- Has someone else speak on their behalf, or is in possession of their identification or other important documents (licenses, passports, etc.).

- Appears fearful, anxious, depressed, or nervous; pay close attention if signs of distress exacerbate around a specific individual.

- Is excessively reserved, meek, and obedient and appears fearful of displeasing.

- Is constantly in the presence of another individual and is rarely or never out of his or her sight.

- Is nervous around law enforcement officials (they may be here illegally; a common tactic traffickers use is agreeing to assist migrants in crossing the border and then forcing them into labor or commercial sex to pay off their debts).

- Is unaware of their location or what day it is.

- Seems to talk as though someone has directed them on what to say; their story is too rehearsed.

- Lives and works in the same building.

Be aware of various tactics

Traffickers have various strategies they use to approach their victims. It is not always obvious. Nowadays, traffickers may even approach victims over social media or on the Internet. They often groom people and try to flatter and charm them. Do not meet up with strangers you've met online.

If somebody comes to you for help in a public place, alert store security.

If somebody rings your doorbell at home and asks to come inside to use your phone to call for help, close and lock all doors and windows and call the police and tell the person through the locked door that help is on the way.

If you take ride-sharing services or use Uber or Lyft, be sure your driver is who they say they are. Verify that their vehicle is correct, has the sticker, and ask to see their ID.

Again, if something is amiss, trust your instincts. There is a reason you are feeling the way you are.

See something, say something

There plenty of resources out there. You could help somebody. You could make a difference. If you feel as though something is suspicious or you happen to know someone who is a victim, call the following phone numbers:

- Emergency Services: 911

- Tampa FBI Field Office (non-emergency): (813) 253-1000

- Tampa Police Department (non-emergency): (813) 231-6130

- Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (non-emergency): (813) 247-8200

- Clearwater Police Department (non-emergency): (727) 562-4242

- Pinellas County Sheriff's Office (non-emergency): (727) 582-6200

- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1 (888) 373-7888