Human Trafficking
Trafficking is modern day enslavement, and it happens in New Jersey. Learn the signs, understand the risks, and find real, practical ways to be part of the solution.
National Hotline: 1-888-373-7888Know the signsNew Jersey Human Trafficking Hotline. Free, confidential, and open 24/7.
What Is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking is the use of force, fraud, or coercion to make a person do labor or commercial sexual activity. It takes two main forms, sex trafficking and labor trafficking, and it can affect people of any age, gender, or background. People being trafficked are often hidden in plain sight: in hotels, restaurants, nail salons, agriculture, domestic work, and online.
You don't need proof or certainty to report a concern. Trusting your instincts and calling a hotline lets trained professionals assess the situation, and it can save a life.
New Jersey Is on the Front Line
New Jersey is especially vulnerable to trafficking. Its dense population, its spot along the I-95 corridor, and its closeness to New York City and Philadelphia make it a hub that traffickers exploit.
trafficking cases connected to New Jersey by the National Human Trafficking Hotline
As of April 2025people identified in those New Jersey cases
As of April 2025trafficking-related arrests in NY and NJ after the 2026 World Cup
Law enforcement reportsThe New Jersey Human Trafficking Task Force, convened by the state Attorney General and the Division of Criminal Justice, works to prevent trafficking, prosecute traffickers, and support survivors across the state.
The World Cup and Trafficking Risk
This summer, the 2026 FIFA World Cup brought more than 1.2 million visitors to the New York and New Jersey region, with matches, including the final, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
NJ Transit launched its "Safe Passage" anti-trafficking initiative, and agencies expanded awareness campaigns and police presence around the stadium. The New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking partnered with the global campaign It's a Penalty and organized a statewide "World Cup ACT" effort, including a Weekend of Action and a town proclamation project.
New York and New Jersey law enforcement reported more than 150 trafficking-related arrests. The NYPD's Special Victims Unit made 89 arrests and connected 43 survivors, including seven minors, to support services. New Jersey State Police made 71 arrests and identified 97 survivors.
Officials said the results came from months of cross-agency preparation, and that anti-trafficking work continues all year, not just around major events.
Awareness is prevention. The more people who know the signs, the fewer places traffickers have to hide.
Know the Warning Signs
Trafficking can be hard to spot. These are some signs that someone may need help. No single sign confirms it, but patterns are worth paying attention to.
Seems fearful or anxious, or gives scripted, coached answers
Is closely watched or controlled by another person
Isn't free to come and go as they wish
Has no ID, money, or belongings of their own
Shows signs of abuse, injury, or exhaustion
Works long hours for little or no pay
Be Part of the Solution
Beyond noticing and reporting, there are everyday ways to help stop trafficking.
- Learn the signsTake a short training so you can recognize trafficking.
- Save the hotlines in your phoneThat way you're ready to act: 1-888-373-7888 and 1-855-END-NJ-HT.
- Shop and travel ethicallyChoose fair trade and survivor-made products.
- Give or volunteerSupport local anti-trafficking organizations.
- AdvocateAsk your elected officials to fund prevention and survivor services.
- Raise awarenessStart the conversation in your workplace, faith community, or school.
Trusted Resources and Further Reading
See Something? Say Something.
You don't need to be certain. Report a concern and let trained professionals respond. It's free, confidential, and available 24/7.
National Hotline: 1-888-373-7888NJ Hotline: 1-855-END-NJ-HTFor support after sexual violence in Union County, call Karolina's Place at 908.233.7273.