Lured by Predators

 

The Average Age Children Are Lured into Child Trafficking

One of the most alarming aspects of child trafficking is how young victims often are.

The Reality of Grooming & Exploitation

  • The Average Age of Trafficked Children is 12-14: Many victims are middle school-aged when traffickers first approach them.

  • Even Younger Children Are Targeted: Some cases involve children as young as 9 or 10 being groomed online before being lured into exploitation.

  • Both Girls & Boys are at Risk: While many assume trafficking only affects girls, boys are also victims, often overlooked and underreported.

Ex-Navy Seals Rescue Victims from Sex Trafficking

Watch our founder, Joseph Travers and our team of volunteers describe this modern day slavery and how teens are lured away from safety.

How Traffickers Lure Children

  • Social Media & Gaming Platforms: Traffickers pretend to be friends, romantic partners, or recruiters for modeling, acting, or jobs.

  • Promises of Love & Security: Many victims come from difficult home situations and believe traffickers will provide them with a better life.

  • Fake Opportunities: Predators promise money, jobs, or housing in exchange for "helping out" in ways that quickly turn dangerous.

By educating parents, teachers, and young people about these tactics, we can prevent more children from falling victim to trafficking.

 
Karinna Zarate