Human smuggling

Human smuggling is different from human trafficking. Human smuggling involves moving people across international borders in exchange for money. Once they reach their destination, the smuggler and the person part ways. In some cases, people who agreed to be smuggled have later become victims of human trafficking.

Types of exploitation

Victims of human trafficking are exploited in different ways:

Sexual exploitation

Victims are forced to provide sexual services, or work in massage parlors, for escort agencies or the adult entertainment industry.

Forced labour

Victims are made to work under harsh conditions, such as long hours, low or no pay, or unsafe environments (such as in the construction industry or in agricultural work). It can also include working as caregivers with unreasonable hours and unrelated duties.

Organ removal

Victims are trafficked for their organs, due to issues of low supply and high demand.

*This type of trafficking is not prevalent in Canada.

Recruiting tactics

Traffickers may use tactics on their victims, such as:

• showering victims with affection and gifts (like jewelry, designer clothing and designer bags)
• promising an exciting lifestyle and money
• offering work, education, or financial support for their families

They approach potential victims:

• pretending to be a love interest, friend, or sponsor
• advertising jobs and opportunities in newspapers or online
• resorting to threats or kidnapping
• connecting through social media platforms

The law in Canada

Human trafficking is a criminal offense under multiple sections of the Criminal Code. The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act also includes provisions against cross-border trafficking. To learn more about the legislation, you can visit the  Department of Justice website.

If your a Victim trying to Escape

• Try to determine your location if you do not know it – this is important if you make a call for assistance and need to move farther away from the area. Clues to your location include street signs, mailing envelopes, building addresses, and signs in building lobbies. If it is safe to go outside, ask someone on the street or in a store for the location.
• Keep your documents on or near you.
• Memorize a few important phone numbers of people or organizations that can help you in case your phone is taken from you.