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January marks national Human Trafficking Prevention month

Experts say human trafficking doesn’t always look dramatic or violent. It can occur in everyday places like malls, hotels and online spaces.

Daniella Rodriguez

Jan 13, 2026, 10:16 PM

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January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about a crime advocates say often happens in plain sight.

Experts say human trafficking doesn’t always look dramatic or violent. It can occur in everyday places like malls, hotels and online spaces. Warning signs may include someone being closely monitored, unable to speak freely or appearing fearful or controlled.

Advocates with Long Island Against Trafficking say trusting your instincts is critical. They stress that bystanders don’t need to intervene directly and that reporting suspicious behavior can help connect victims to resources and potentially save lives.

Available resources:

Immediate Danger: Call 911

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1 (888) 373-7888

Text "HELP" or "INFO" to 233733

Crime Stoppers: 1 (800) 220-TIPS

Suffolk Sheriff's Office Human Trafficking Unit: https://www.suffolkcountysheriffsoffice.com/human-trafficking

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