Signs that someone may be being trafficked Changes in behaviour, physical appearance, belongings and relationships with family and friends can be signs that someone might be a victim of human trafficking. Signs to watch for include: Behaviours and activities: - are repeatedly missing from home and/or have been frequently reported missing to police - are being secretive about their activities - begin staying out more often and later - are absent from school or there is a decline in school performance - use new or increased methods of transportation, such as taxis, ride-hailing or sharing applications - are not allowed to speak for themselves and their activities are controlled by someone else - seem fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, tense, nervous or paranoid (they may avoid eye contact or seem fearful around police) - move frequently and may not know their surroundings well - are repaying a large debt through labour or sex (including sexual imagery/filming) - are unpaid or paid very little to work and seem to be treated poorly (long or unusual hours, not allowed breaks or forced to live in poor conditions) Relationships with family or friends: - are withdrawing or isolating from family and friends - have a new boyfriend, girlfriend or friend who they won’t introduce to friends and family - suddenly spend time with an older person or people Physical appearance and belongings: - begin wearing more sexualized clothing - have new clothing and jewellery that they can’t afford to buy - show signs of physical abuse, such as bruising, cigarette burns or fractures - have tattooing or branding symbols, particularly names - suddenly have a new or second cell phone with a secret number - don’t have their own belongings or money, and don’t control their own passport or other documents - seem malnourished or lack medical care Source: ontario.ca