Artificial Intelligence: The Frontline Weapon Against Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a crime that is often described as modern-day slavery. It is not only a violation of human rights but also a lucrative business for organized criminal groups. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimates that there are around 25 million victims of human trafficking worldwide, and this number is expected to increase due to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The fight against human trafficking is a complex one that involves various stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, non-governmental organizations, and governments. However, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology is proving to be a game-changer in the battle against human trafficking. In this article, we explore how AI is being used to combat human trafficking.
Understanding the Role of AI in Combating Human Trafficking
AI is changing the way we do things in almost every field, and the fight against human trafficking is no different. Law enforcement agencies are leveraging AI to augment their investigation capabilities, and NGOs are using the technology to identify victims and prevent the crime from happening in the first place.
The use of AI in combating human trafficking is primarily focused on three areas: identification of victims, gathering intelligence, and prevention:
Identification of Victims
Identifying victims of human trafficking is one of the most challenging tasks for law enforcement agencies and NGOs. Victims are often hidden, and traffickers go to great lengths to keep them from being identified. However, AI is making it easier to identify potential victims.
NGOs such as Thorn are using AI to search through online classifieds and social media platforms to identify potential trafficking victims. The platform called Spotlight uses computer vision and natural language processing to scan ads, and it automatically sends reports to law enforcement agencies. This technology has enabled law enforcement agencies to identify victims who would have otherwise remained hidden.
Gathering Intelligence
Another area where AI is showing great promise is in the area of gathering intelligence. Traffickers operate in the shadows, and it is often difficult to gather evidence against them. However, AI is making it easier for law enforcement agencies to track down traffickers.
For example, Patternizr, an AI-based predictive policing platform, is being used by the New York Police Department to identify patterns in crime data to match cases with specific crimes. The platform has been successful in identifying patterns of human trafficking and helping law enforcement agencies map out trafficking networks.
Prevention
Prevention is the ultimate goal in the fight against human trafficking. AI is being used to prevent human trafficking by identifying potential victims, predicting the occurrence of the crime, and mapping out areas where the crime is likely to happen.
For example, the Global Emancipation Network (GEN) is using AI to detect signs of potential human trafficking. The technology uses facial recognition and movement analysis algorithms to determine if a person is exhibiting signs of distress. If the technology detects signs of distress, it alerts law enforcement agencies who can take appropriate action.
Real-World Examples of AI Combating Human Trafficking
The use of AI in combating human trafficking is not just a theoretical concept; there are several real-world examples where the technology has been successful:
Operation Reclaim and Rebuild
In January 2018, the California Department of Justice partnered with the non-profit organization, Operation Underground Railroad (OUR), to conduct a three-day operation, called “Operation Reclaim and Rebuild,” to combat human trafficking. The operation involved over 200 law enforcement officers, including the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations, and used AI technology to identify potential victims.
The AI technology, developed by OUR, combed through 52 million images to identify potential victims. The technology analyzed the images for age, gender, facial features, and other distinguishing characteristics. The technology identified 27 victims of human trafficking, leading to the arrest of 36 people.
Global Emancipation Network
The Global Emancipation Network (GEN) is an NGO that is using AI to combat human trafficking. The organization has developed a technology called Freedom Signal that uses AI and machine learning to analyze social media posts and identify potential victims of human trafficking.
In one instance, the technology identified a 17-year-old girl who had been missing for over two years. The girl’s social media posts were analyzed, and the technology identified common themes and patterns that suggested she was a victim of human trafficking. Law enforcement agencies were alerted, and the girl was rescued and reunited with her family.
Spotlight
Thorn, a non-profit organization focused on combating child sexual exploitation, developed a platform called Spotlight, which uses AI technology to identify potential victims of human trafficking. The platform scans online classifieds and social media platforms for signs of potential trafficking.
In one instance, the technology identified a 21-year-old woman who had been listed on a classified site for escort services. The technology analyzed her photos and text and determined that she was likely a victim of human trafficking. Law enforcement agencies were alerted, and the woman was rescued.
Conclusion
Human trafficking is a despicable crime that affects millions of people worldwide. The use of AI technology is proving to be a game-changer in the fight against human trafficking. The technology is being used to identify potential victims, gather intelligence, and prevent the crime from happening in the first place.
Real-world examples of AI being successful in identifying and rescuing human trafficking victims demonstrate the effectiveness of the technology. As AI continues to evolve, it holds the promise of enabling law enforcement agencies and NGOs to combat human trafficking more effectively.