Every teen and teen wannabee loves their social media, so it’s only common sense that traffickers will use social media however they can to recruit their victims. It starts innocently enough, complimenting and assuring the young person that they have just found a new friend.
Combine a young person’s insecurities with someone who seems to want to be their friend and the process starts.
According to this article on Fox2Now – St. Louis:
Cindy Malott, Director of Advocacy Services for Crisis Aid International, works with survivors of sex trafficking. She said social media is now the “most common way” she sees traffickers are making initial contact with victims.
“Every app you can imagine,” said Malott. “Even apps specifically focused for young children.”
While the approach has evolved, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson said the method is the same. In many cases she has prosecuted, Anderson said the trafficker identifies a vulnerable minor and begins the grooming process.Anderson encourages parents to empower children to understand their vulnerability and recognize the warning signs of predatory behavior. Malott said parents can monitor their children’s social media activity, but parents must acknowledge that they cannot protect their in every situation.
“Assume that they’re going to be exposed to things. That someone’s going to be interacting with your children. Just assume that, and talk to them,” said Malott.
While it’s uncomfortable to have this conversation with young children, the alternative is far worse. For starters, you might ask about whether they have any friends who have met someone new through the Internet and work with other parents to create a safe environment in your neighborhood.
