Indicators of Human trafficking

Human trafficking is one of the most lucrative organized crimes, involving the exploitation of people through force, fraud, or coercion. Victims can be of any gender, age, or background. Indicators may vary from the below depending on the case. Report any signs or suspicions to the blue blindfold.

  • No Access to own money

  • Language or communication barriers

  • No access to passport or other identity documents

  • No access to personal means of communication (mobile phones, laptops, etc.)

  • Withdrawn, frightened or confused behaviour

  • Unable to move freely and live or work in a locked premises

  • Long working hours and forced to eat and sleep where they work

  • Physically unwell and/or showing signs of drug use

  • Limited or inadequate clothing for the weather or work that they do

  • Forced to engage in criminal activity

Other potential indicators:

  • Inability to speak alone or someone always speaking on behalf or translating for the individual

  • Answers appear to be scripted and rehearsed

  • Repeat visits to the hospital for STIs and/or treatment for multiple incidents of physical abuse or workplace accidents/injuries

  • Live or travel in a group, sometimes with others who do not speak the same language

  • Have tattoos or other marks indicating “ownership” by their exploiters

Still unsure? Consider the following questions to reflect on:

If you have observed potential indicators of trafficking, consider whether any of the following concerns may be present:

  • Does the person appear unable to leave their work or accommodation freely?

  • Does the person seem to be under the control or constant supervision of another individual?

  • Are there signs that the person has been threatened, intimidated, or harmed?

  • Could there be concerns for the safety of the person's family or loved ones?

  • Is the person's accommodation linked to their employer or work situation?

  • Are there indications that the person may be living in poor, overcrowded, or unsuitable conditions?

  • Does the person appear to be in debt to an employer, recruiter, or another individual?

  • Does the person have access to and control over their own passport, identification documents, and personal belongings?

Report a concern:

If you are a victim of trafficking, or have a suspicion that some else is, you should contact An Garda Síochána (the Irish Police), who can help or provide advice.

You can report concerns by;

Calling the Garda Confidential Telephone Number:

1800 666 111

Or through e-mailing blueblindfold@garda.ie

For more information please visit blueblindfold.gov.ie

In an emergency call An Garda Síochána on 999/112

All contact is dealt with in the strictest of confidence. While there is no requirement to provide your name or address, we would ask that you provide as much information as you can to enable An Garda Síochána to investigate thoroughly.

In addition to contacting the Gardaí, you can also get assistance from a list of organizations working with victims of human trafficking and other support services

Learn more