CYBERCRIME OF TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE PROTECTION OF FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS IN SOCIAL NETWORKS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate how human trafficking occurs in the digital age, exploring the use of victims' data obtained from social networks by traffickers. Despite the security mechanisms of big techs, crimes persist online. In this research paper, we sought to understand how digital platforms are used for this crime, examining how sensitive data is exploited, identifying manipulation techniques, and suggesting preventive measures. The central issue was to identify how human trafficking materializes based on information on social networks. The initial hypothesis pointed to the inefficiency of operational protection in cyberspace. The general objective was to understand the use of social networks in the commission of this crime. Specifically, the objectives were to analyze the exploitation of sensitive data, identifying manipulation techniques, and suggesting prevention. The methodology was dialectical at the exploratory level, with a literature review and a documentary analysis on fundamental rights, criminal dogmatics, and journalistic reports. Results indicated the need for continuous awareness about the risks of using these technologies and demanded state action. In the conclusion, the aim is to broaden the understanding of the phenomenon, emphasizing the development of technological tools in order to guarantee individual rights.