Numerous myths and misconceptions exist when talking about human trafficking. Many of these myths attempt to explain what human trafficking is and who it impacts. When in reality, human trafficking is much more complex, and happening in plain sight.
Myth #1: Only women and girls can be victims and survivors of human trafficking.
Fact: One study estimates that 50% of individuals affected by sex trafficking are male. Advocates argue that percentage may be even higher but that male victims are far less likely to be identified. LGBTQ boys and young men are particularly vulnerable to trafficking.
Myth #2: Traffickers target victims they do not know.
Fact: Many survivors have been trafficked by romantic partners, including spouses, and by family members, including parents.
Myth #3: Human trafficking involves moving or transporting a person across state or national borders.
Fact: Human trafficking is frequently confused with human smuggling, which involves illegal border crossings. The crime of human trafficking does not require any movement whatsoever. Survivors can be recruited and trafficked in their own home towns, even their own homes.
Source: Myths & Facts - National Human Trafficking Hotline https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/human-trafficking/myths-facts
Myth #1: Only women and girls can be victims and survivors of human trafficking.
Fact: One study estimates that 50% of individuals affected by sex trafficking are male. Advocates argue that percentage may be even higher but that male victims are far less likely to be identified. LGBTQ boys and young men are particularly vulnerable to trafficking.
Myth #2: Traffickers target victims they do not know.
Fact: Many survivors have been trafficked by romantic partners, including spouses, and by family members, including parents.
Myth #3: Human trafficking involves moving or transporting a person across state or national borders.
Fact: Human trafficking is frequently confused with human smuggling, which involves illegal border crossings. The crime of human trafficking does not require any movement whatsoever. Survivors can be recruited and trafficked in their own home towns, even their own homes.
Source: Myths & Facts - National Human Trafficking Hotline https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/human-trafficking/myths-facts
Author: Ciara Sheeran, Stop-It Program
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