January 11 is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day — a time to shine a light on the pervasive issue of human trafficking and share information on how to recognize and prevent it. Social media has completely changed how we connect, share and learn — but it’s not all good news. For traffickers, these platforms provide countless opportunities to exploit vulnerable individuals.
Plan and CNN’s As Equals teamed up to create an interactive report surveying more than 600 girls and young women across nine countries. The results were chilling. The report revealed that 58% of respondents have experienced online abuse — with many highlighting social media platforms as the primary spaces where harm occurs.
Read the full interactive story here.
How to report a suspicious profile
If you encounter a suspicious profile or receive unsolicited messages, take these steps:
— Use the platform’s “report” feature to flag inappropriate behavior.
— Block the account to stop further contact.
— Share your concerns with someone you trust.
Red flags to watch for
Traffickers often search for posts or profiles where people share their struggles. For example, they might respond to a teen posting about feeling alone or misunderstood with comments like, “I know how you feel,” or “You deserve better than this.”
Traffickers use empathy as a weapon — they gain trust and create dependency. Once trust is established, they may escalate the grooming process by offering gifts, promising opportunities or isolating their target from friends and family.
Be cautious about engaging with strangers online. Trust your instincts and talk to someone you trust if something feels off.
Is this a fake profile?
Fake accounts are a common tactic traffickers use to lure potential victims. Here’s how to recognize them:
— Limited or generic personal information in their bio.
— Profile pictures that look overly polished or appear to be stock images.
— Messages that are overly friendly or offer quick opportunities, like “Get rich fast!” or “Work with us.”
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Awareness of these red flags is a strong tool to protect yourself from online predators.
Strengthen your digital resilience
Digital resilience helps you recognize and navigate online risks. You can protect yourself by taking these practical steps:
— Limit personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive details like your location, school or daily routines online.
— Strengthen privacy settings: Regularly update privacy settings on social media to control who can see your posts and contact you.
— Trust your instincts: If something feels off about an interaction or a profile, it probably is — trust your gut.
— Know where to get help: Familiarize yourself with each platform’s reporting features and resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline for support.
Learn more in Plan’s Building Digital Resilience report.
How traffickers stay in control
Traffickers don’t stop at initial contact. They often use social media to monitor and isolate their victims — restricting access to friends and family or impersonating them to spread misinformation.
If someone you know suddenly pulls back from online interactions or seems distant, it could be a sign they’re being manipulated. Reaching out to show support can make a difference.
Plan’s fight against online trafficking
Plan is at the forefront of creating safer digital spaces. Through advocacy, education and resources, we work to equip girls and young women with the tools they need to thrive in the online world. Plan’s Building Digital Resilience report and CNN’s As Equals interactive report identify risks and provide strategies to navigate and mitigate these dangers.
Our advocacy extends to supporting legislative efforts like the Kids Online Safety Act — aimed at holding platforms accountable and fostering safer online environments. Together, these initiatives create a foundation for long-term safety and resilience in digital spaces, ensuring girls and young women can confidently navigate the online world.
The internet should empower — not endanger. Staying informed, vigilant and connected ensures everyone — especially girls — can learn, lead and thrive safely both online and offline.
To learn more about staying safe online and avoiding trafficking risks, visit the National Human Trafficking Hotline website.
Together, we won’t stop until we are all equal.
