Online Trafficking: Empowering Communities through Awareness
The COVID-19 pandemic struck fear into the hearts of many, leading to tragic losses of loved ones. It also brought about a faltering economic system and the introduction of new terms such as lockdown. However, amidst the turmoil, a significant and impactful change emerged, one that had both positive and negative implications for human life. Whether consciously or unconsciously, circumstances force us to shift in a particular direction. From an economic perspective, this shift can be likened to the big push theory, although it was not a planned effort to promote any specific product. Rather, it was a necessity that arose due to the circumstances imposed by COVID-19. While it is true that our transition towards a digital era was already underway before the pandemic, COVID-19 acted as a catalyst, expediting our progress in this direction. Thus, the term “catalyst” appropriately characterizes the pandemic’s influence on our digital transformation.
During the pandemic, we witnessed a complete integration of digital technology in various sectors such as education, health, economics, and business. Initially, it proved to be immensely beneficial, helping us navigate through the challenges posed by the pandemic. However, as time progressed, we began to observe both positive and negative outcomes stemming from this increased reliance on digital platforms. The lockdown measures confined us within the four walls of our homes, isolating us from our social environments. Consequently, we found solace in the digital world, often spending a significant portion of our time engaged in online activities. Paradoxically, despite being surrounded by our families, we experienced a sense of loneliness as we immersed ourselves in the digital realm. Within this self-imposed digital bubble, we became the masters of our virtual domains, dictating what we saw, chose, and deemed right or wrong. There were no external factors to moderate our online experiences. While this may seem like a trivial matter, its long-term consequences could be significant and far-reaching.
The COVID-19 era witnessed a noticeable decline in people’s patience, exacerbated by the lack of monitoring during the elections we conducted. Consequently, we became more susceptible to quick and misleading information, resulting in a surge of deception. Additionally, our reliance on digital mediums increased to the extent that we found ourselves relying on very few individuals for our needs. The digital world became the backdrop against which we lived our lives, encompassing our workplaces, shopping experiences, friendships, healthcare access, and entertainment. It served as a beacon of hope amidst adversity, offering numerous positive effects. However, it is important to acknowledge that along with its benefits, the digital realm also brought forth certain negative consequences.
To some extent, the increasing dependence on digital technology has become a human vulnerability, leading to the rise of cyber stalking, phishing, and a surge in cybercrime cases. According to a Google report, Google registered 149k active phishing websites in January. In February, that number nearly doubled to 293k. However, in March the number increased to 522k – a 350% increase from January. https://f3magazine.unicri.it/?p=2085
During the pandemic, the world witnessed a staggering surge in cybercrime rates, reaching unprecedented levels. Individuals became targets of various fraudulent schemes, resulting in financial losses. The combination of reduced work opportunities, job losses, and financial constraints made people more vulnerable to manipulation and quick to fall victim to deception, leading to unfortunate mistakes and entrapment.
In addition to financial concerns, the pandemic has also exposed an increased demand for sexual activity, giving rise to practices such as virtual sex. With nearly 600 million smartphone users in our country, this important market has created a profitable business environment for virtual sex. It is important to address and acknowledge the implications of such activities and to promote awareness and prevention measures to ensure the well-being and safety of the individuals involved.
Human trafficking is a deeply organized and pervasive criminal activity, with cyberstalking and online trafficking serving as critical tools in this illicit trade. These practices enable perpetrators to track and monitor social activities, exploiting individuals based on their needs and interests. Victims are often subjected to emotional manipulation, blackmail, and enticement through promises of love or financial gain. It is essential to recognize the intricate nature of human trafficking and work towards combating this heinous crime through increased awareness, robust law enforcement, and support for victims.
One concerning aspect of online activities is that they often take place within the confines of our digital bubble, where no one else is aware of what transpires. This isolation can be problematic, as instances of exploitation or victimization may occur without the knowledge of our family members or loved ones. By assuming sole control over the decisions made in this digital realm, we often resist involving others in our online experiences. This self-imposed isolation can further exacerbate vulnerabilities and make it difficult to seek help or support when needed. It is crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and involving trusted individuals in our digital lives to ensure our well-being and safety.
Below, find some tips to protect yourself and your loved ones against human trafficking:
- Set strict privacy settings
If your social media accounts are public, then anyone can see your photos, posts, and other information. Traffickers have used this information to reach out to and recruit victims. Consider setting your accounts to ‘private’ and turn off location sharing on posts.
- Beware of strange friend requests
Only accept friends or follow requests from people you know, even if you have friends in common. Traffickers have reached out to strangers to ‘chat’ via social media and then slowly work to build trust with the potential victim.
- Don’t overshare
Remember that everything you put online – photos, texts, etc. – is in the public domain. You no longer have total control over how it is being seen or shared. Traffickers have used people’s photos and personal details to help them blackmail, contact, groom, or otherwise recruit and monitor victims. Never share personal information, such as your phone number, address, or live location online.
- Beware of advertisements that seem too good to be true
Traffickers often use catchy language in job advertisements online, promising high wages for simple work or a chance to become a model. Traffickers will often be vague about the company’s credentials, details, or terms of employment. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Flag it, don’t share it!
Stay vigilant in the online sphere and report suspicious pages or activities to the authorities.
Don’t hesitate to unfriend, block or report someone who is harassing you or talking to you in a way you don’t like. Click on the links to see how to block accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
Take screenshots of the messages or posts – they might be useful later for an investigation or law enforcement.
- Know the warning signs of trafficking
Being aware of the warning signs of trafficking can help you to identify when you or a loved one is at risk of being ‘groomed’ or recruited online.
- Get help or raise the alarm
Many countries have free, confidential resources and helplines for those who have been or are at risk of being trafficked. Make sure to know your National Human Trafficking Hotline.
While implementing effective measures is crucial in combating human trafficking, it is ultimately our conscience that plays the most significant role. By staying vigilant and informed about the issue of human trafficking, we can make a substantial impact in preventing it. It is essential to engage in open conversations, seek advice from others, and report any suspicious activities or incidents we encounter. Reporting instances of human trafficking or related concerns not only raises awareness but also contributes to the collective effort in combatting this crime. By actively participating in reporting and spreading awareness, we empower ourselves and others to take a stand against human trafficking and work towards its eradication.
If we choose to remain silent, there is a real possibility that someone may fall victim to online trafficking, turning their own home into a space for exploitative practices like virtual prostitution. Just as the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed us towards a more digital existence, it is equally plausible that someone could be coerced into prostitution within the confines of their closed room, all without our awareness. The consequences of our silence can be devastating, allowing such exploitation to thrive in the digital realm. It is crucial that we break this cycle of silence and actively work towards preventing and combating online trafficking, safeguarding the well-being and dignity of potential victims.
It is imperative that we initiate conversations about human trafficking, raise awareness, and take action, starting from our own homes. By doing so, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from falling prey to this insidious trap. Every life holds immense value, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals. By actively engaging in discussions, spreading awareness, and advocating for preventive measures, we contribute to the larger effort of combating human trafficking and preserving the dignity and rights of every individual. Together, we can make a significant difference and create a safer world for everyone.