Michael Fullilove on Combating Child Trafficking: Parental Guidance and Tech Challenges
The majority of sex trafficking in the U.S. is American citizens trafficking other American citizens for American citizens broadly. The way that they end up going into sex trafficking is through a very insidious method. The traffickers often use social media to spot them, identify vulnerabilities and then exploit those vulnerabilities and then turn them into a life of sex trafficking.
How do traffickers exploit social media to ensnare children, and what can parents do to shield their kids from this hidden danger? Michael Fullilove, Chief of Operations at Deliver Fund, dives into these pressing issues on 'American Medicine Today'. In this eye-opening episode, Fullilove breaks down the tactics traffickers use to lure vulnerable children through online platforms, stressing the crucial role parents play in safeguarding their children.
He underscores the importance of monitoring social media activity and having open conversations about the risks. Fullilove also highlights the broader societal changes needed to tackle child trafficking effectively. Technology, while helpful in identifying and recovering victims, isn't a silver bullet. Fullilove explains how traffickers can block signals from tracking devices, complicating rescue efforts. The episode also touches on recent controversies like Netflix's 'Cuties', which has sparked debate over the sexualization of young girls.
Through his discussion, Fullilove provides a sobering look at the complexities of combating child trafficking and the tireless work of Deliver Fund in rescuing and rehabilitating victims. Tune in for a comprehensive understanding of this critical issue and practical advice on protecting the most vulnerable.