Maintaining awareness and practicing digital safety are paramount in the fight against trafficking. Simple steps such as changing social media privacy settings and turning off location settings can go a long way in keeping people safe from traffickers. Dr. Ted Reynolds, Director of the University of Central Florida’s Terrorism Studies Program, has prepared the following tips on how people, especially parents, can better protect themselves and their children from becoming victims of human trafficking:

  • Change the privacy settings on your social media to only allow people you know personally to view your postings.
  • Monitor and manage your social media regularly to prevent unwanted followers or friends.
  • Turn off your location settings on your phone to prevent tracking and/or stalking.
  • Avoid posting compromising photos that can be used to coerce you.
  • Do not engage in online dialog with anyone you don’t know.