Human trafficking is happening right now, in every country, in every community. It's a crime that thrives in plain sight, but awareness is one of the most powerful weapons we have against it.
At Aerial Recovery, we believe that no action is too small when it comes to preventing exploitation and protecting the vulnerable. That's why we want to equip you with two simple but life-saving tools: the BEFREE textline and the 4040 hand signal.
The BEFREE Textline: A Lifeline for Victims
The National Human Trafficking Hotline provides a critical resource for victims and concerned citizens alike. By saving 1-888-373-7888 in your phone, you have immediate access to help 24/7. If you ever suspect someone is being trafficked, or if you are in danger yourself, this number connects you directly to trained specialists who can coordinate with law enforcement and provide support. Additionally, you can text "HELP" to 233733 to learn about the BEFREE textline, a discreet way for victims to reach out when a phone call isn't safe. These resources are confidential, available in multiple languages, and have been instrumental in countless rescues across the country.
The 4040 Hand Signal: A Silent Call for Help
The 4040 hand signal was created to give trafficking victims a way to alert others to their situation without speaking. It's simple: hold your hand up with your palm facing outward, tuck your thumb into your palm, and fold your fingers down over it. This gesture can be made on a video call, through a window, or in any situation where someone cannot safely ask for help out loud. If you see someone make this signal, take it seriously, note their location, any details about who they're with, and contact law enforcement or the trafficking hotline immediately. Teaching this signal to young people, especially teens who spend time online, could save a life.
Your awareness and action matter. Save the trafficking hotline in your phone today. Learn the 4040 hand signal and share it with your family, especially young people who may encounter dangerous situations online or in person. Have conversations about online safety with the young people in your life. Share these resources on social media, you never know who might need them.
Together, we can create a network of informed, vigilant communities where traffickers can no longer operate in the shadows. Every person who knows these tools becomes part of the solution.
To learn more about how you can support our anti-trafficking missions and join the fight, visit AerialRecovery.org.
Support Anti-Human Trafficking Missions
