In June, the U.S. Department of State published the 2024 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report. The report highlights global trends in human trafficking, emphasizing both successes and challenges. It notes achievements in law enforcement, victim protection and prevention initiatives across various regions.
It also identifies persistent issues, including the exploitation of vulnerable populations exacerbated by factors such as conflict, natural disasters and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The evolving impact of digital technology on trafficking is a significant focus of the report. Below are our key takeaways from this year’s report:
Recruitment and Exploitation
Digital tools and social media platforms have become pivotal in the recruitment of vulnerable individuals into trafficking situations. Traffickers use deceptive job advertisements, social networking sites and online forums to target and lure victims with false promises of employment, education opportunities or romantic relationships. Through this digital recruitment, traffickers can target victims on a global scale, making it challenging for law enforcement agencies to track and intervene effectively and coordinate support services for victims and survivors across jurisdictions.
The increase in digital technology also allows traffickers to target and exploit victims while remaining anonymous, hiding their true identity and taking advantage of the lack of regulations to protect victims from being exploited on online platforms. LifeWay Network is dedicated to advocating for the protection of victims and survivors. To support this cause, we endorse the Earn It Act (S.1207), which shields minors from being exploited on online platforms, and the SHIELD Act (S.412), a bill that aims to recognize as a new crime the distribution — or threat to distribute — intimate images without the individual’s consent.
One way to protect personal data when using digital platforms is to employ encryption systems, such as virtual private networks (VPNs). These systems prevent third parties from accessing your private information and only allow access to authorized individuals. However, traffickers can also use encryption systems to maintain anonymity and evade accountability, creating an additional barrier during law enforcement investigations. This digital anonymity complicates efforts to identify and protect victims, as well as prosecute perpetrators.
The TIP report suggests that law enforcement agencies need to continuously adapt their investigative techniques to effectively monitor online spaces, gather digital evidence and collaborate internationally to minimize the impact of digital technology on trafficking and dismantle human trafficking operations across the globe.
Information Sharing and Awareness
As the use of digital technology continues to increase, we must focus on data protection, data analysis and data sharing in order to prevent, identify and reduce cases of human trafficking. However, we also must take measures to ensure the safety and protection of victims and survivors in the event of a potential data breach.
The TIP report recommends that governments improve data security standards, pass legislation to protect victims and survivors from online harm and exploitation, and assess the best method to analyze and share data ensuring the safety and protection of victims and survivors.
A positive impact of digital technology on trafficking is that it allows for more opportunities to share information and raise awareness on a global scale. With the use of social media, online campaigns and mobile applications, stakeholders such as law enforcement agencies, NGOs and advocacy groups can educate communities about the signs of trafficking, promote resources for victims and survivors, and encourage reporting of suspicious activities.
Given the increase in the use of digital platforms, it is crucial to educate children, youth, parents and the community at large on the risks and how to remain safe while navigating digital platforms.
The report highlights the pressing need for stricter regulation of digital platforms and technologies to prevent traffickers from misusing them. Governments, technology companies and NGOs should form stronger partnerships to create and put into action effective safeguards. This includes improving algorithms to detect trafficking-related content and establishing protocols for promptly responding to reports of online exploitation.
While the impact of digital technology on trafficking has meant new methods for traffickers, it also provides opportunities for innovative responses and collaboration in the effort to eradicate human trafficking. The TIP report emphasizes the significance of responsibly utilizing digital tools to safeguard vulnerable populations, dismantle trafficking networks and secure justice for victims and survivors worldwide.
Take Action Now
Read more on the State Department’s 2024 TIP Report here:
https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-trafficking-in-persons-report/
Request a presentation on online safety by emailing LifeWay Network’s director of education at [email protected].
By Josephine Crisostomo
July 19, 2024