As part of a segment by Good Morning San Diego, Saved In America’s own Advisory Board Member Stephanie Myers explained the scope of the sex trafficking problem across the nation. “We have a massive problem in this country when it comes to sex trafficking.” Read that again, not just a problem but a massive one! Consequently, human trafficking awareness is immensely important. 

What Has Led to an Increase in Sex Trafficking?

While there are many factors that have contributed to the increase in sex trafficking, the COVID-19 shutdowns have proven especially problematic. In addition to being detrimental to young peoples’ mental wellbeing, the shutdowns have given predators a golden opportunity to swoop in and begin the grooming process online that turns an innocent child into the next sex trafficking victim. Due to the shutdowns, kids are now home more than ever before, and online more than ever before. This online, digital, and social media presence is the environment that highly skilled predators use to lure children into their sickening web of deceit. It begins innocently by them reaching out to your children on social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter and others like it, but progresses to the child running away and becoming a victim of one of the most heinous crimes in America, child sex trafficking.  

Are All Children Targets for This Type of Abuse and Subsequent Dangers?

Yes, according to Myers, all children can fall victim of this type of grooming and can become victims of child sex trafficking. There is no demographic that is safe from the dangers. This means you as a parent have to be hyper-aware of what your children are doing online. Who are they talking to, do they know them in real life, etc.? 

Why Human Trafficking Awareness is so Important

Being aware of human trafficking and the immense danger it poses to our children is a must in order to counteract the schemes of these highly skilled professionals. While contemplating such evil is less than appealing, it’s a necessary step to protect your children from the very real danger that human trafficking presents. Don’t allow yourself to be lulled into complacency, but recognize the dangers that are present all around you, even within your own home. This enemy is cowardly and often fights behind a screen. Don't allow them to corrupt or groom your children, be aware of human trafficking. #ChildSavedNotSold