January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and for those of us in hospitality, this is not an abstract issue. It affects real people, real hotels, and real communities.
One of the most dangerous misconceptions is this:
The reality is that trafficking can occur at any property, in any market, at any price point. What traffickers look for is opportunity, not a brand flag or zip code.
Spot the Signs: How Every Hotel Employee Plays a Part
Preventing human trafficking is not the responsibility of one department. It is a shared effort built on awareness, confidence, and clear procedures.
What to Look For
Signs are often subtle:
- Guests who appear fearful or avoid eye contact
- Individuals unable to speak for themselves or control ID or payment
- Excessive requests for linens or towels
- Frequent room changes or unusual foot traffic
- Signs of physical distress or coercion
Housekeeping, front desk, maintenance, night audit, and management all see different pieces of the puzzle.
Why It Matters
For hotels, failing to recognize warning signs can also lead to legal exposure, reputational damage, and harm to staff morale and guest trust.
Hotels are uniquely positioned to disrupt trafficking when teams are trained, observant, and empowered.
How to Respond Safely
The goal is never confrontation. Safety always comes first. Team members should know how to document concerns, escalate internally, and follow state and local reporting guidance.
Clear processes and training remove uncertainty and fear from those moments.
Technology and Training That Support Action
Visual Matrix is committed to helping hotels move from awareness to action.
WyThrough our PACT integration, hotels can securely document and track suspicious activity within their operational workflow. Paired with state-by-state guidance, teams know exactly when and how to report concerns appropriately.
Training is just as critical. That’s why we encourage teams to complete EmpowerU Training, which provides role-based education on recognizing indicators and responding safely.
Many hotels also partner with industry organizations focused on prevention, such as the American Hotel & Lodging Association .
Take the EmpowerU Training and learn how your team can help stop human trafficking.
Access EmpowerU TrainingOur Mission Continues
Human trafficking thrives in silence and uncertainty. It weakens when awareness spreads and action becomes consistent.
This January and all year long, we remain committed to protecting victims and supporting the hotel clients who trust us with their guests, teams, and properties.
If You Suspect Human Trafficking
If you believe someone may be a victim of human trafficking, help is available 24/7.
National Human Trafficking Hotline:
1-888-373-7888
Text: 233733 (BEFREE)
Visit the National Human Trafficking Hotline website