Child sexual exploitation is happening all around us.

Online Sexual Exploitation

A child who is experiencing online enticement may be:

• Spending increasing time online

• Getting upset when he or she is not allowed on their device

• Taking extra steps to conceal what they are doing online

• Receiving gifts from people you don’t know

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Sex Trafficking

Possible indicators of a child who is a victim of sex trafficking:

• A significantly older boyfriend or girlfriend

• Chronic runaway

• Special marks, tattoos or branding

• Homelessness

• Substance abuse

• Multiple delinquent charges

• New clothes, jewelry or phone that cannot be accounted for

• Sudden change in appearance or behavior

• Be fearful of police or authorities

• Exhibit signs of physical and psychological trauma (e.g. anxiety, lack of memory of recent events, bruising, untreated conditions)

• Have limited freedom of movement, because they are being watched

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Child Abuse

A child who is being sexually abused is often forced to perform the “services” by an older person in a position of power or trust. The abuser may also coerce the child through some form of a favor, such as alcohol, drugs, attention or gifts. You may notice a child that is:

• Often going missing

• Showing evidence of physical or sexual assault (including STDs)

• In relationships with significantly older people

• Traveling with an older man

• Secretive

• Has unexplained money or presents

• Experimenting with drugs and alcohol

• Seen entering or leaving vehicles with unknown adults

• Showing signs of low self image, self harm, or eating disorder

• Taking part in social activities with no plausible explanation

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