Most young trafficking victims are lured into being trafficked through the false promise of being taken care of by their trafficker and gaining ‘family’. Youth who run away from their homes are particularly vulnerable to becoming victims of both sex and labor trafficking.
Additionally, it can be hard to spot a trafficker; they can be classmates, other peers, or family members. Even after trafficked victims have been separated from their trafficker, they may still feel a strong connection to them and not recognize the harm their trafficker caused. It is important for foster parents, caregivers, and child welfare staff to learn how to recognize signs of trafficking and how to respond to victims.