From DMs to Gaming Chats: How Traffickers Are Targeting Youth Online
Across Hamilton, Burlington, and Brantford, human trafficking is changing. While many still imagine trafficking as something distant or uncommon, the reality unfolding in our own communities tells a different story. The rise of digital exploitation, the impact of social media, and the shifting age of those targeted are creating new challenges for families, youth, and service providers.
On February 22, National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, we shine a light on the alarming trends emerging locally, and on the critical work being done by the YMCA’s Combatting Abuse and Sexual Exploitation (CASE.) program, whose staff tirelessly support those at risk, involved in, or exiting trafficking situations.
Growing Digital Exploitation
Human trafficking is evolving. Community data and frontline experience show that traffickers increasingly use digital spaces to groom, lure, and control young people—often without parents or caregivers noticing until the situation has become dangerous.
Youth are being approached through apps and platforms that feel like everyday parts of teen life:
Snapchat, WhatsApp, Instagram DMs, Facebook
Gaming platforms, including Minecraft, Fortnite, Roblox, Grand Theft Auto and Call of Duty
Online forums or chat-based apps such as Reddit, Wizz, Discord, and WeChat
File-sharing platforms like Google Drive or Google Hangouts
Sextortion—where youth are coerced into sharing explicit images or videos—is also rising. Traffickers offer:
In-game currency (Fortnite, Roblox)
Online gift cards
Once an image is shared, threats follow:
“If you don’t send more, I’ll send this to your family, friends, or post it online.”
The pressure is relentless, and it’s happening to youth as young as 12 years old.
Signs of Luring
Even small behavioural changes can signal that a young person is being targeted:
Not introducing or acknowledging a new boyfriend/partner
Secretive phone use, hidden conversations
New gifts, items, or money from “friends”
Spending long periods in the bathroom taking photos or videos
Signs of Trafficking
Disappearing for 24–48 hours at a time
Sleeping excessively after these absences
Traveling to other cities unexpectedly
Withdrawing from activities, school, friends, or family
These signs are often easy to miss, especially because many victims still live at home while being exploited.
The YMCA’s CASE Program
In the face of these rising concerns, the YMCA’s Combatting Abuse and Sexual Exploitation (CASE) program has become a lifeline for individuals across the region.
CASE provides free, confidential, non-judgmental support to people of all ages and backgrounds who are:
At risk of trafficking
Currently being trafficked
Exiting trafficking situations
And the need is growing.
In 2021, the average age of referrals was 20.
In 2022, it dropped to 16.
By 2024, it was 15.
Over the last five years, CASE workers have supported:
40 clients connected to elementary schools
150 clients connected to secondary schools
This shift underscores a painful truth: younger youth are being targeted more than ever before.
The People Behind the Program
CASE workers are support workers who connect young people with local services and assist them in their pursuit of healing and independence.
One YMCA CASE worker describes the work this way:
“CASE provides a lifeline for survivors, offering safety, comfort, and belonging. We help rebuild confidence and autonomy, empowering individuals to reclaim their lives.”
For some staff, the work is deeply personal.
A CASE youth worker shared:
“Many of the young people we support have had involvement in the child welfare system. As someone who grew up in foster care, this hits close to home. Supporting them is more than a job—it’s a responsibility I feel to give back.”
The dedication is evident not just in crisis moments but in long-term healing. Many clients stay connected to CASE for years as they rebuild their identities and sense of self.
Another staff member said:
“This work can be emotionally taxing, but the resilience of the youth we help brings a sense of hope. Knowing we can make a difference is incredibly meaningful.”
What CASE Support Workers Do
CASE workers provide:
Support assessing needs and accessing services like housing, employment, education and recreation
Safety planning
Trauma-informed, person-centered support
Assistance with police, connection to legal representation and help understanding court processes
Most importantly, they meet people exactly where they are—whether educating youth to prevent exploitation, supporting someone in leaving a trafficker, or helping a survivor rebuild their life.
How You Can Help
One caring, non-judgmental conversation can change someone’s life.
If you think someone may be at risk or being exploited:
Engage with them—ask questions, listen openly
Explore their hesitations and motivations without pressure
Help them identify choices that give them control
Focus on rights and responsibilities, not rules
Establish how you will work through challenges together
Even if the person is not ready to leave or disclose, simply knowing you are a safe, supportive presence can be life-changing.
Why National Human Trafficking Awarenss Day Matters
National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is about recognizing the problem and committing to understanding, prevention, and action.
Human trafficking is a complex, evolving issue. But with awareness, community support, and programs like the YMCA’s CASE initiative, we can protect vulnerable youth, empower survivors, and create safer communities.
Today, we honour the resilience of survivors, the bravery of those seeking help, and the dedication of the CASE staff who walk beside them every step of the way.
#TheYSavesLives #IgnitePotential #ShineOn
CASE provides essential support to victims of trafficking as they make their way along the path to recovery and healing.
