Human trafficking is happening everywhere, including in all 50 U.S. states, and short-term rental properties are not immune. Our Rescue CEO Tammy Lee joined the “Short Term Rental Secrets” podcast to discuss how this pervasive issue can infiltrate communities in unexpected ways. Short-term rentals are typically homes and apartments rented through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. Tammy shared how owners of these properties can take actionable steps to combat trafficking in their own backyards.
Operating in 27 countries around the world, Our Rescue leverages partnerships, technology, and education to make a global impact—and now, Tammy is calling on short-term rental owners to Join the Fight (TM) against sex trafficking and child exploitation.
People who are in the short-term rental business, or who own hotels, are either part of the problem or part of the solution,” Tammy noted. “We want everybody to be part of the solution.
In this episode, Tammy highlights the importance of recognizing vulnerabilities in the short-term rental space and implementing measures to prevent exploitation.
- Recognize vulnerabilities and understand how properties might be exploited by traffickers.
- Monitor suspicious activities, such as frequent late-night check-ins, minimal luggage, or bookings made with stolen or falsified information.
- Foster collaboration with local law enforcement to report and address any red flags.
- Educate staff about the signs of trafficking and how to respond appropriately.
- Leverage technology, including AI and data analytics, to identify patterns of exploitation and improve safety measures.
With an ongoing focus on survivor care, Tammy also shared how short-term rental properties can be repurposed to provide safe havens for survivors as part of their healing journey, underscoring the potential of this community to create meaningful change in the fight against trafficking.
This episode of the Short Term Rental Secrets podcast isn’t just a conversation; it’s a call to action.
Listen to the full episode here.
Take a stand today by signing the JOIN THE FIGHT™ Pledge.
Together, we can make a difference. Share this blog to spread awareness and take the first step toward ending sex trafficking and child exploitation.