Frequently Asked Questions
Is this mobile application free to download and use?
Yes. The application is free to download and use, with no in-app fees or purchases.
Where can the application be downloaded?
The application is available for iOS devices through the Apple App Store and for Android devices through the Google Play Store.
What data is collected from this application?
The application collects only:
- Survey scores submitted through the screening tool; and
- The state selected by the user during registration.
Survey scores are not linked to individual user accounts or personally identifiable information.
Is this application anonymous to use?
Yes. The research team does not collect names, email addresses, or other personally identifiable information through the application. The only information collected is the user's selected state and submitted survey scores, and survey scores are not linked to individual accounts.
Users are required to verify their law enforcement affiliation through GovX to help ensure that access to the application is limited to its intended audience. This verification process is separate from the survey data collected by the research team.
Does this application utilize geolocation technology?
No. The application does not track or collect users' precise locations.
During initial registration, users are asked to select their state so that survey submissions can be associated with a general geographic region. The application does not collect or provide specific geolocation information.
Is a GovX login required to use the application?
Yes. GovX verification is required to confirm law enforcement affiliation and help limit access to the application to its intended users.
Has the application been tested in the field?
Yes. The tool was developed through a rigorous, collaborative process with input from a multidisciplinary task force that included law enforcement personnel, prosecutors, victim advocates, human trafficking survivors, and other subject matter experts.
Following development, the tool underwent validation testing with more than 80 law enforcement personnel using simulated human trafficking scenarios. It was subsequently pilot tested by more than 30 law enforcement personnel who used the tool in the field over a three-month period. Feedback from both phases was used to further refine the tool for real-world use.
Can the 8 screening questions be rearranged or reworded?
Yes. Although the screening questions are numbered 1–8, they may be asked in any order to best fit the natural flow of the conversation.
Questions may also be reworded to align with your natural way of speaking, as long as the underlying intent of each question is maintained and a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach is used.
The eight questions are intended to provide a baseline for screening. Officers may ask additional questions when appropriate to better understand the circumstances of a potential trafficking situation.
What does the screening result mean?
The screening result is intended to help officers identify indicators that may warrant further assessment for potential human trafficking. It should be considered alongside the totality of the circumstances, including the individual's responses, observed indicators, available information, and the officer's professional judgment.
The HTST is a screening and decision-support tool and is not intended to independently confirm or rule out human trafficking.
What should I do if the screening result indicates potential human trafficking?
Follow your agency's established protocols for suspected human trafficking. Continue to use a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach and consider additional assessment, specialized personnel, or victim services as appropriate.
What if the screening result does not indicate potential human trafficking, but I still have concerns?
The screening result should not override professional judgment. If concerns remain, consider additional assessment and follow your agency's established protocols for suspected human trafficking.
What should I include in the Local Resources tab?
The Local Resources tab is intentionally left blank so users can add resources that are most relevant to their jurisdiction and agency protocols.
Because the tool is designed for use nationwide, this feature allows users to identify local resources rather than relying solely on general national resources. Examples may include:
- Local shelters and service providers;
- Human trafficking task forces;
- Victim advocacy organizations; and
- Other key contacts relevant to your agency's human trafficking response protocols and procedures.
Are there any training materials on how to utilize the application?
Yes. Training and instructional materials are available to support use of the HTST, including instructional videos and slide decks.
Is there a way for law enforcement departments to deploy the application on their work phones via an IT collaboration?
Yes. Agency-level deployment may be possible; however, this service is not yet widely available. Our team is working to expand this capability in the future.
For questions about agency deployment or IT collaboration, please contact TREDS at treds@ucsd.edu.
Who should I contact if I have an issue with the application?
For technical issues or assistance with the application, please contact TREDS at treds@ucsd.edu.
Who should I contact if I want more information about the application?
For additional information about the HTST or its implementation, please contact TREDS at treds@ucsd.edu.
Where can I get more human trafficking training?
TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking) offers free online human trafficking training for law enforcement, including interactive training modules and accompanying resources. Training features perspectives from law enforcement leaders, human trafficking survivors, victim advocates, and TAT trainers.
TAT also provides in-person, in-depth training opportunities for select law enforcement audiences.
For more information, visit TAT's Law Enforcement Training webpage or contact TAT at le@tatnonprofit.org.
