Đinh Văn Trình, former officer of the Criminal Police Department (C02), Ministry of Public Security. — VNS Photo

Human trafficking has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with the rapid growth of social media and digital technologies. From your perspective, what are the most notable trends and emerging challenges facing authorities today?

Human trafficking has changed considerably. In the past, traffickers often approached victims directly and transported them across borders for sexual exploitation or forced labour. Today, however, criminals increasingly use social media and online platforms to identify, contact and manipulate potential victims.

They create fake identities, build trust online and lure victims with promises of well-paid jobs, marriage opportunities or a better life abroad. A particularly worrying trend is the rise of scam compounds in countries such as Cambodia and Myanmar, where victims are deceived into travelling overseas and then forced to engage in fraudulent activities.

At the same time, trafficking networks are becoming increasingly organised, transnational and closely linked to other crimes such as money laundering, online fraud and illegal gambling.

Many trafficking cases now begin with online recruitment offers or seemingly attractive employment opportunities abroad. What are some of the most common tactics traffickers use to lure victims through digital platforms?

Criminals take full advantage of the accessibility and anonymity of social media. They create attractive online profiles, present themselves as successful professionals or legitimate recruiters and advertise seemingly lucrative jobs overseas.

Victims are promised high salaries, free travel, accommodation and assistance with paperwork. Some are told they need little or no experience and will receive training after arriving at their destination.

These schemes exploit people's aspirations for a better life, stable employment and financial security. Unfortunately, many victims only discover the truth after arriving overseas, when they find themselves trapped in exploitative or criminal environments.

Human trafficking has increasingly been linked to scam compounds and cyber-enabled crimes in the region. How serious is this challenge, and what implications does it have for Việt Nam?

This is one of the most concerning developments in recent years.

Previously, Việt Nam was regarded primarily as a country of origin and transit for trafficking victims. However, there are growing signs that criminal groups may seek to relocate or expand certain operations into Việt Nam, creating new risks for the country.

The convergence of trafficking, cybercrime and organised criminal networks makes investigations more complex and requires stronger cooperation among law enforcement agencies, both domestically and internationally.

In response to these evolving threats, what measures have Vietnamese authorities taken to prevent and combat human trafficking, particularly in the online environment?

Law enforcement agencies have adopted a range of measures. One important priority is monitoring criminal activities and emerging trends across digital platforms. Authorities are increasingly using digital technologies and cyber-investigation tools to identify trafficking networks, gather evidence and detect criminal methods.

Cooperation has also been strengthened with border guards, international organisations and foreign law enforcement agencies, particularly in countries where trafficking involving Vietnamese citizens remains a serious concern.

Through these efforts, many trafficking networks have been dismantled and numerous victims have been rescued and supported.

The revised Law on Prevention and Combat of Human Trafficking introduces a number of new provisions. What are the most significant changes, particularly regarding the protection and support of victims?

The revised law adopts a stronger victim-centred approach and aligns more closely with international standards. It places greater emphasis on protecting victims' rights, privacy and safety. Importantly, support mechanisms have been expanded not only for confirmed victims but also, in certain circumstances, for people awaiting victim identification and children accompanying victims.

The law also strengthens the responsibilities of agencies, organisations and the media in prevention efforts while ensuring that reporting and interventions do not cause further harm to victims.

Many victims returning from overseas scam compounds appear reluctant to seek help or cooperate with authorities. What are the main barriers preventing them from coming forward?

Many returnees experience significant psychological pressure. Some feel ashamed because they believe they were deceived too easily. Others fear being judged by society or worry that they may face legal consequences because they were involved, voluntarily or under coercion, in fraudulent activities while abroad. In some cases, victims were forced to participate in scams or other illegal activities. As a result, they often struggle with trauma, guilt and fear. These concerns can discourage them from approaching authorities, support organisations or even the media.

As online recruitment scams continue to evolve, what practical advice would you give to members of the public to help them avoid becoming victims of trafficking and exploitation?

Public awareness remains one of the most effective tools in preventing human trafficking. People should be cautious about job offers, recruitment advertisements or promises of quick wealth that seem too good to be true. Information should always be verified through official channels before any decision is made.

At the same time, society needs to adopt a more empathetic and victim-centred approach so that those who have experienced trafficking feel safe seeking help and reporting their experiences.

Human trafficking often begins with a simple online message or recruitment offer. Staying informed, remaining vigilant and verifying information are essential steps in protecting oneself from becoming a victim. — VNS