These five facts highlight who is at risk, how recruitment happens, and why awareness is important on college campuses

1. Human trafficking cases are on the rise globally. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reported a 25% increase in identified trafficking victims in 2022 compared with 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

2. Trafficking disproportionately affects young people. Teens and young adults- particularly those experiencing housing instability, family conflict, or discrimination- are at a higher risk.

3. Recruitment often occurs online. Social media, dating apps, and gaming platforms are now some of the most common tools used by traffickers to recruit and groom victims.

4. State-Level studies show high prevalence. A 2025 statewide report from the University of South Florida estimated over 700,000 people in a single state experienced trafficking in one year, 500,000 in forced labor, and 200,000 in sex trafficking.

5. Many victims are U.S. citizens. Contrary to common myths, the majority of identified trafficking victims in the US are US nationals, not foreign nationals.

Human trafficking often goes unnoticed, not because it is rare, but because it is misunderstood. Research consistently shows that campuses, service providers, and peers who understand the signs of trafficking play a crucial role in identifying victims and connecting them with help. By learning the signs, challenging harmful assumptions, and fostering a culture of care, our campus can play an active role in preventing exploitation.

*Resource linked in this post is the Lab to Combat Human Trafficking