S04 E03 Part 2: Human Trafficking in Online Marketplaces (Part 2): Exposing the Threats & Tools to Fight Back

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February 18th, 2025

33 mins 33 secs

Season 4

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About this Episode

In this episode of the Shadow Dragon podcast, Director of National Security David Cook hosts a conversation for National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The panel features:

This episode explores how open-source intelligence (OSINT) methods can unveil hidden threads of human trafficking by tracing repeated text, phone numbers, and images in online ads. Experts from both ShadowDragon and the Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative (ATII) emphasize that ethical, transparent data collection is vital for legal admissibility. They also stress the significance of parental involvement—through open dialogue, clear device-use boundaries, and vigilance for red flags like unsolicited gifts or secrecy—in thwarting exploitation before it begins. Central to prevention is the “stop, block, and talk” framework, which empowers children to discontinue unsafe interactions, block perpetrators, and immediately seek help from a trusted adult. Ultimately, the episode underscores that deploying cutting-edge OSINT tools, coupled with engaged parenting and community collaboration, remains key to addressing the global crisis of human trafficking.

Key Takeaways

  • OSINT in Trafficking Investigations: Repeated text, phone numbers, and images in online ads can offer critical leads on trafficking networks.
  • Ethical Data Collection: Transparent, legally compliant methods ensure that gathered evidence is admissible in court. Parenting & Prevention: Open communication, device-use boundaries, and awareness of red flags (like secretive behavior) are essential for child safety.
  • “Stop, Block, and Talk”: A straightforward guideline that urges children to halt disturbing interactions, block the user, and seek adult assistance.
  • Community Collaboration: Harnessing advanced OSINT tools alongside active parental and broader community engagement is crucial in the fight against human trafficking.

Request to view ShadowDragon and CACI's DarkBlue Intelligence Suite Webinar on using OSINT to find indicators of human trafficking online: https://share.hsforms.com/1dcl3pCneSpOAeQpkQFI66g53lw0