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Forced Scamming

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Slavery Hiding in Plain Sight: Scam Messages and Human Trafficking

Every day, digital scams flood our phones. But behind many of these messages are real people – trapped, exploited, and forced to perpetrate scams against their will.

This is modern slavery hiding in plain sight:
  • 50 million people globally trapped in forced labor globally 
  • 80% of text-based scams exploit trafficking victims
  • Forced scamming generates more than US$ 11 billion annually

It’s a stark reminder that no country or region of the world is immune from human trafficking. And, it’s often closer than we think.

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A Fast-Growing Crime

Forced scamming is one of the fastest-growing forms of human trafficking.

Across Southeast Asia, criminal syndicates use social media to lure unsuspecting job seekers with fraudulent opportunities that are too good to refuse. They promise high-paying, white-collar jobs, and even offer travel and accommodation.

But upon arrival, victims have their passports, IDs, and phones confiscated. They are left isolated and powerless to seek help. Trapped in unfamiliar surroundings, victims face brutal treatment. Escape is impossible.

Victims of forced scamming are often educated professionals. But they soon find themselves enslaved in a lucrative criminal industry that generates over US$ 11 billion every year.

Hagar's Solution

At Hagar, we believe ending human trafficking will take all of us working together. Our proven model tackles human trafficking in three ways.

survivor care

Restoration

Through residential and community-based survivor care, victims receive everything they need to overcome trauma and rebuild their lives.

HUS Trafficking Prevention

Prevention

We equip local families and communities to know the tactics traffickers use and prevent exploitation before it starts.

HUS Strengthening Systems

Transformation

By empowering survivor leaders, local communities, and global change-makers, we transform the systems that perpetuate abuse.

Join the Fight Against Forced Scamming

Whether you donate, get informed, or report suspicious activity – you can help break the cycle of exploitation and restore hope to survivors. Together we can help every woman and child experience the freedom and dignity they deserve.

Every Action Counts

Rescue & Restore Survivors

survivor care

Donate to provide essential care and resources for survivors while helping prevent exploitation. Every gift is tax-deductible.

Get
Informed

HUS Trafficking Prevention

Download our Human Trafficking Action Guide to learn the signs, understand the issue, and discover how you can make a difference.

Report Suspicious Activity

HUS Strengthening Systems

If you suspect a text or phone call is human trafficking or digital exploitation, take action now.

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