Victims of human trafficking may be reluctant to come forward due to tactics of the trafficker. The following list are examples of the altered mindset that may prevent a victim from reporting:

• May not self-identify as a victim of human trafficking. (They may not think they need help because they have a place to live, food to eat, medical care and what they think is a paying job)
• Are unaware or have been misinformed of their rights in our country
• Fear and mistrust law enforcement. Often traffickers tell their victims that they will be arrested and/or deported if they try to get help
• Engage in self-blame. (They may feel that their current situation is their fault, and they feel guilty about it)
• May develop loyalties and positive feelings toward the trafficker as a way to cope with their situation (in these cases, they may even try to protect the trafficker from authorities)
• Fear for the safety of family members in their native country whose safety may have been threatened by the traffickers