Manobal

Online Trafficking

Manish Walter — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 10:49:28 +0000

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.

Beyond Beauty: The Obstacles of an Aging Sex Workers Life

Manish Walter — Tue, 30 May 2023 18:50:06 +0000

Today, whenever we go to the market and find expired food items, we ensure that their consumption date has not passed. Any food item or other product has a limited period for consumption, after which it is no longer suitable for consumption; Items like milk, bread, medicine, batteries, etc., can only be consumed for a certain period. But in this world, there are places where even human beings are considered unfit for consumption after a certain period. These are infamous areas that we prefer not to mention in a civilized society. We know them as the "Red Light Area." It is a deeply distressing reality that exists in society, yet it remains unnoticed. These areas can be found in every city, hidden away in some corner. Here, women are treated as commodities with an expiration date of around 30-35 years, after which they are deemed unsuitable. People stop engaging with them. This raises a profound question: Was their life limited to this?

When an item reaches its expiry date, it is discarded. But what about human beings? This poses a significant question regarding how they are categorized. Are they mere objects or living beings?

Due to various reasons such as deceit, poverty, love, marriage, money, greed, debt, and more, these women are pushed into this profession at a young age. Those who later purchase them sell them at higher prices. They are then traded from one brothel to another, from one city to another, where their exploitation is maximized. During that time, certain aspects of their life may seem bearable.

However, a time eventually comes when their bodies weaken, and their beauty fades away. No one inquires about them then. This becomes the most challenging phase of their lives. They remain confined to a notorious world that had been shut off until now. It is a world of slavery, characterized by a cramped 6 by 6 coffin-like room that serves as their world and workplace, where an insufficient amount of light penetrates. They are unable to establish connections with the outside world or forge their own identity. When they reach the age of 35 and realize there is no work, they find themselves at a loss.

Where can someone with a red identity go? This identity cannot provide them with any work. Years of slavery have hindered their mental development. As a result, they have fallen behind in the race of life and are unable to find employment. In such circumstances, they can neither leave nor remain inside.

They are left with only two options. The first is to gather all their strength and emerge from that darkness, ready to face every situation in life. The second option is to remain in darkness, helpless. It is often observed that they choose the conditions of slavery. What is it that prevents them from breaking free? This is a deeply troubling question.

Initially, their identity, symbolized by the colour red, is noticeable, and we recognize them by that colour. They are not accepted as ordinary human beings. That is why they prefer to remain in that same red hue because no one judges them there. Despite poverty and helplessness, living in that environment seems easier. They do not have to feel ashamed.

When we encounter someone who speaks our language or hails from our region in an unfamiliar city, we feel a sense of comfort. It brings us joy. This is the fundamental human nature that arises from within us, and it applies to those women as well.

After years of slavery and living in darkness, when they step out, everything feels unfamiliar to them. No one accepts them, and they also feel uncomfortable in that environment. It is akin to keeping someone in a dark room for an extended period and then suddenly exposing them to daylight initially, their vision is obscured, and they instinctively close their eyes. Even in the presence of light, they yearn to remain in darkness.

So, is darkness their only destiny?

Today, there are more than 2 crore sex workers in our country. Every year, thousands of girls are coerced into this profession, and thousands are discarded as useless and left behind.

So, what happens to those women who are deemed useless every year? This is also a pressing question, and we must seek the answer.

God has created us as equals. We all possess equal importance, regardless of age, religion, caste, or colour. Similarly, the lives of these women hold immense value, even if they are considered useless. Their lives are invaluable.

They too deserve the right to equality that we enjoy. They have families and children, and they need the education to secure their future. They deserve to lead dignified and ordinary lives. We merely need to extend our hand towards them so that they too can bask in the light, walk-in brightness, and transform their circumstances.

Human Trafficking – A menace for Human Life

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 17:17:27 +0000

Human Trafficking a crime of buying and selling of persons is considered as the second largest crime worldwide. Human trafficking and migrant smuggling are global and widespread crimes that use men, women, and children for profit. The organized networks or individuals behind these lucrative crimes take advantage of people who are vulnerable, desperate, or simply seeking a better life. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contain Multiple targets that aims to foster regular and safe migration, eradicate human trafficking, and combat Organized crime.

Human Trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of people through force, fraud, or deception, with the aim of exploiting them for profit. Men, women, and children of all ages and from all backgrounds can become victims of this crime, which occurs in every region of the world. The traffickers often use violence or fraudulent employment agencies and fake promises of education and job opportunities to trick and coerce their victims.

Human Trafficking is mainly done for forced labor, for forced begging, Child soldier, forced marriage for sexual exploitation and for removal of organs.

The core elements of Human Trafficking are

The Means -How it is done

Threats
Force coercion abduction
Fraud or deception
Abuse of power
Inducement for exploitation

The Act -What it is done

Recruits
Transports
Harbors
Transfers
Receives

The Purpose -Why it is done

Exploitation

The two important factors of this crime are Supply factor and Demand factor and both of the contribute to the rise in this crime

Supply factor

Abject Poverty
Social Mores – Child marriage, Single/widowed, and abandoned women not accepted in rural communities
Female illiteracy and lack of access to education by girls
Male unemployment and loss of family income puts pressure on women to earn
Natural and manmade calamities and poor rehabilitation puts pressure on women and children to earn
Dysfunctional families that have difficulty functioning and communicating, especially on emotive issues
Desertion by one or the other parent, uncared/abandoned kids.

Demand Factors

Nuclear Families – lowering of family support – live with maids.
Increased Urbanization plus increasingly both spouses working.
Declining sex ratio – demand for wives in some States “Paros”
Rising male migration to urban areas and demand for commercial sex.
Growth of tourism, which indirectly encourages sex tourism.

To combat the crime of Human Trafficking 3 majors’ components namely 3 Ps play an important role. These 3 Ps are

Prevention
Protection
Prosecution

This crime can be curb when the Government of affecting countries will be more focus on Prevention part . Under this component the Govt. stakeholders and the likeminded NGOs should focus more on prevention part where awareness creation among all the potential victims needs to be done so that they can understand the consequences of this vital crime . Creating awareness and sensitizing communities will develop an alert among those who are at the risk of being Trafficked and the can take preventive measures against trafficking.

Secondly Protection part indicates on the Rescue of victims who are being trafficked by Police and other agencies .

Lastly Prosecution involves the legal action against the perpetrator or the traffickers where the Immoral trafficking Prevention Act 1956 is applied if the accused is found guilty.

Convergence of Stakeholders to combat Human trafficking is a very essential for getting better results. A collaborative action of different stakeholders like NGOs, Social Welfare organizations, Police, Shelter Homes, Labor Department, Education department, Rural Department, Prosecutors, Information & Broadcasting can curb the Human trafficking from the country.

Victims of trafficking can be any age, any gender and from anywhere in the world. According to UNODC’s 2022 Global report on Trafficking in Persons which is compiled using official figures from over 148 countries, female victims continue to be the primary targets.