Casino Employees Being Trained to Recognize Human Trafficking

By Jane Shaw Senior Editor Updated: 01/31/2024

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Human Trafficking Training

It has been revealed that many casino employees are set to receive training to help them to recognize the signs of human trafficking. This is thanks to the American Gaming Association, which has launched a program to help tackle the rising issue.

In a concerted effort to address the problem of human trafficking, the American Gaming Association has unveiled a comprehensive training series designed specifically for gaming industry employees. This initiative, announced on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, will enable employees within the gaming sector to identify and respond effectively to signs of human trafficking.

Strong Connection Between the Gaming Industry and Human Trafficking

According to reports, there is a strong connection between the gaming industry and human trafficking, which many people do not realize. Traffickers often exploit hotels and casinos as venues for their illicit activities.

The AGA has highlighted a worrying trend where traffickers use the anonymity provided by some hotels, which allow cash payments and do not require identification for bookings, to conduct their operations under the radar. The AGA stated:

Casinos and hotels can be optimal environments for human trafficking, especially if the property allows for cash payments, does not require ID checks, or similar lacks security procedures that would make trafficking more difficult. Hospitality employees have been reported as acting as middlemen in setting up trafficked individuals with buyers.

In addition to physical gaming properties being used, online gaming apps are also emerging as tools for traffickers to recruit victims through chat features and launder money through both online and retail casinos.

An Innovative Training Program from RG24seven Virtual Training

In a bid to address this challenge, the AGA is working with RG24seven Virtual Training to develop an innovative training program. The program comprises a series of instructional videos and quizzes designed to educate gaming employees on the signs of human trafficking. Upon completion of the training, participants will receive a certificate.

Officials from RG24seven Virtual Training said that this was an important issue that had to be addressed. They added that they were honored to be working with the AGA to help advance the efforts of the gaming industry when it came to tackling human trafficking.

The training is based on principles outlined in the AGA’s “Preventing and Combating Human Trafficking in the Gaming Industry” handbook, which was first introduced in 2022. The handbook acts as a valuable resource, and it provides in-depth insights and guidelines for identifying and responding to trafficking activities within the gaming industry.

The launch of this training series marks a significant milestone in the AGA’s long-term plans to raise awareness and address human trafficking within the gaming industry. By providing employees with the knowledge and tools to recognize and report suspicious activities, the AGA aims to create a more vigilant and responsive workforce.

In addition, the initiative means that the AGA will not only help to protect the integrity of the gaming industry but also to reduce the ongoing and growing problem of human trafficking in the United States.