The True Post(Web News) Rising inflation, debt burdens, and insecure jobs in the UK are leading to exploitation of people, while modern technology has made it easier for criminals to recruit and control people for illegal activities.
According to the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, Eleon Lyons, more than 23,000 potential victims were identified in 2025, a 22% increase on the previous year and the highest level ever. According to the report, a fifth of the victims are British citizens themselves, while Eritrea (13%) and Vietnam (9%) are the other major affected countries. Experts warned that if urgent action is not taken against criminal networks, human trafficking, forced labor and sexual exploitation will become more difficult to track down.
The report also revealed that artificial intelligence and digital platforms are helping criminals trap children and vulnerable people, blackmailing children by grooming them through online games, where boys are used in drug networks and girls for sexual exploitation. According to statistics, sexual exploitation of underage girls has increased by 50% in the last 5 years, while victims avoid reporting due to fear and pressure. On the other hand, The Home Office said the government was reviewing the system of modern slavery, taking steps to reduce the backlog of cases and adding 200 staff.
