BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE: CYBERSECURITY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS
“Technology is a double-edged sword—with the power to both facilitate and fight human trafficking. Among us are silent survivors, potential victims, and silent traffickers.”
Orishaba Famious – Application Security Analyst at Stanbic Bank Uganda
Cybersecurity and human trafficking are rarely discussed together, yet their intersection is increasingly relevant in our digital era. Attending a virtual session on the impact of cybersecurity on human trafficking, organised by the Counter Human Trafficking Program under the Igoye Young Professionals Mentorship Institute (IYPMI), was both eye-opening and timely.
The session, hosted by Assimwe J. Opota and moderated by Nabukwasi Gift, featured thought-provoking insights from guest speaker Famious Orishaba, a distinguished Application Security Analyst at Stanbic Bank Uganda with a strong specialisation in cybersecurity, application security, threat intelligence, and ethical hacking.
As someone who once asked, What is cybersecurity? What is human trafficking? How does technology contribute to this crime? This session answered those questions and more. Drawing from her expertise, Orishaba skillfully unpacked the complex role technology plays in both enabling and combating human trafficking. With over 27.6 million people globally forced into labour (ILO, 2022), this conversation could not be more urgent. Moreover, the dark web facilitates a lot of illegal services, including aiding trafficking in persons.
From social media exploitation and data breaches to the anonymity offered by the dark web, the session explored how traffickers exploit digital platforms to manipulate, recruit, and exploit vulnerable individuals. At the same time, Orishaba emphasised the power of cybersecurity tools and digital vigilance in detecting, preventing, and combating these crimes.
This session served as a wake-up call for our digital generation. One of the key takeaways was the need for digital literacy and cyber hygiene. As young professionals who increasingly live, learn, and work online, we must understand how to protect our data, spot red flags, and stay safe in virtual spaces.
Even in a hyperconnected world, the session reminded us of the importance of human connection and informed online behaviour. It also highlighted the vital work of organisations like IYPMI, which empower youth and vulnerable communities through education and advocacy.
“Traffickers misuse technology to manipulate, recruit, and exploit vulnerable individuals,” Orishaba emphasised, while also showing how the same digital tools—when used responsibly—can help expose, prevent, and stop these heinous crimes.
Cybersecurity is no longer just about protecting our devices—it’s about safeguarding lives. This session was a powerful reminder that addressing human trafficking demands a multidisciplinary approach—one that merges technology, education, and human empathy.
Kudos to the organisers, speakers, and all participants for creating such a meaningful and impactful dialogue. With continued awareness and collective action, we can build a safer digital world for all.
Author: Peace Harriet Elly
Advocate for girls’ and young women’s rights at Plan International
YPMP Mentee at Igoye Young Professionals Mentorship Institute
