The Digital Crisis: How Social Media Nearly Stole Alice's* Future
At 18 years old, Alice* should have been celebrating her newfound independence—She had just reintegrated after two years in the SHE Rescue Home’s high-security care. Instead, she found herself at the centre of a growing global crisis: the digital exploitation of trafficking victims.
When Alice* reintegrated into her community, she was given her first smartphone. Like most teenagers, she explored social media, excited to reconnect with the world. What she didn’t realise was that traffickers were also watching, waiting, and ready to exploit her vulnerability.
Soon, Alice* was approached by a man online. He seemed kind, understanding, and safe—claiming to be in his early twenties. Over time, their conversations became more personal. He promised her a better life, an escape, and unconditional love. His words were carefully crafted to build trust, but in reality, they were textbook manipulation.
Fortunately, Alice* was not alone. She trusted her social worker enough to share their messages. Together, they examined the conversation, uncovering the subtle lies and the calculated grooming tactics he was using. What seemed like affection was actually a carefully constructed trap. Because of her support system, Alice* never met up with the man—she was kept safe from what could have been a devastating encounter.
Alice’s* story is a powerful reminder that human trafficking has evolved. The 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report reveals how traffickers now use digital tools—social media, encrypted messaging, and even cryptocurrency—to manipulate and exploit victims at an alarming scale. In Cambodia, where government efforts fall drastically short, young people remain extremely vulnerable.
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