Report Safely & Responsibly
Knowing how to respond when you suspect human trafficking is as important as knowing the signs. Reporting concerns the right way can help connect people to safety and support without putting victims, employees, customers, or yourself at greater risk.
You do not need proof to report a concern. If something does not seem right, trust your instincts and follow the guidance below.
If Someone Is in Immediate Danger
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Before You Take Any Action
Human trafficking situations are complex and often dangerous. A well-intentioned response can unintentionally cause harm if it is not handled carefully.
If you suspect trafficking
Do not confront a suspected trafficker
Do not alert a victim to your suspicions
Do not attempt to investigate the situation yourself
Do not promise confidentiality or specific outcomes
Confrontation or disclosure can escalate risk and jeopardize a victim’s safety.
When It May Be Appropriate to Ask Questions
You should only consider asking questions if all of the following are true:
You can speak with the individual privately, without anyone else present
The conversation does not put the individual at greater risk
The individual appears willing to speak
You are calm, non-judgmental, and prepared to stop immediately if needed
If any of these conditions are not met, do not ask questions. Instead, proceed directly to reporting.
Questions to Assess a Concerning Situation
If it is safe and appropriate to speak privately, the questions below may help assess whether trafficking may be occurring. These questions should be asked gently, without pressure, and only to better understand the situation. They should not be used to confirm or investigate trafficking.
You do not need to ask all of these questions.
Can you leave your job if you want to?
Can you come and go as you please?
Have you ever been hurt or threatened if you tried to leave?
Has anyone threatened your family?
Do you live with your employer or at your workplace?
Where do you sleep and eat?
Do you owe money to your employer or recruiter?
Do you have your own passport or identification? If not, who has it?
If the person becomes uncomfortable, fearful, or distressed, stop the conversation immediately.
What to Observe (Without Questioning)
If asking questions is not appropriate, you can still note observable facts, such as:
The location and time of concern
Behaviors that raised concern (fear, control, monitoring)
Unsafe working or living conditions
Avoid speculation or assumptions. Stick to what you directly observe.
How to Report Suspected Trafficking
If the situation is not an emergency, you can report concerns to local law enforcement or to one of the resources below. Reports can be made anonymously, and you do not need to be certain that trafficking is occurring.
National Reporting Options
National Human Trafficking Hotline is a confidential, victim-centered resource that connects callers to local services and law enforcement when appropriate
Call (toll-free): 1-888-373-7888
Text: 233733
Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat
Anonymous online tip: humantraffickinghotline.org/en/report-trafficking
Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line
Call: 1-866-347-2423
Connecticut & Regional Reporting Options
Federal Bureau of Investigation – New Haven Office
Call: (203) 777-6311
New Haven Homeland Security Investigations
Call: (203) 773-2155
The Regionalized Human Trafficking Recovery Taskforce (RHTRT) coordinates victim services, referrals, and law enforcement responses in the Greater Hartford region
Call: (860) 951-9407
Email: DCJ.RHTRTaskforce@ct.gov
Referral form: surveymonkey.com/r/FYF33ST
