Pimping

Pimps use a variety of tactics to recruit their victims. Recruitment often takes place via social networks. Any platform with a private messaging system can be used. 

How it works 

Traffickers send an impersonal message to several individuals, then engage in more exclusive conversations with those who respond. The messages sent are often compliments related to photos posted by the targeted victims. Many other situations can lead to recruitment, such as being approached by mutual friends or in public places.  

Prevention tips 

• Don't accept friend requests from strangers on social networks. 
• Avoid exposing details of your personal life. 
• Adjust the privacy settings of the applications you use to restrict the audience of your posts.  
• Be wary of things that are too good to be true, such as gifts from someone you've known for a short time.  

  Signs to watch for in young people

• Declining school performance.
• New clothes or valuable items.
• Over-emphasis on appearance.
• Development of hypersexualized behaviors.
• Chronic runaways.
• High consumption of psychotropic drugs.

Tips for parents

• Maintain your relationship with your child.
• Seek professional help to discuss your concerns.
• Control your emotions.
• Take care of yourself.
• Encourage communication.

Find out more

The brochure Sexual exploitation - the fight against pimping contains the following information: 

• Role of the SPVM in matters of sexual exploitation 
• Recruitment 
• Prevention tips 
• Signs to watch for in sexual exploitation cases 
• How an investigation works
• How to file a complaint 
• Resources 

What should I do if I'm a victim of pimping? 

If you feel that your life is in danger, call 911. Describe the emergency and your location.