Refugees and asylum seekers are among the most vulnerable people in the world today. The urgency and desperation many face while fleeing their home countries make them easy targets for traffickers, who feed them lies about the journey and what awaits in a new country. In 2025 alone, over 3,000 people lost their lives crossing the Mediterranean. Reducing these tragic deaths requires action, and one of the most effective ways is through education.
Below, we list some of the lies traffickers tell unsuspecting refugees and asylum seekers, designed to manipulate, and exploit them.
1. They Always Promise Big Ships
Traffickers often lure refugees with tales of luxurious, spacious ships. In reality, most of these boats are old, overcrowded, and unsafe, designed to maximize profit rather than ensure safety. This is one of the most common and dangerous lies circulating among those fleeing their countries.
2. They Inflate the Number of Refugee Spots Allowed
Many traffickers exaggerate how many refugees a country will accept, giving the impression that entry is guaranteed. In truth, most developed nations have strict quotas and often evaluate cases individually. Verifying official numbers and procedures beforehand can prevent falling into this trap.
3. They Promise Easy Deals With Other Nations
Some traffickers claim that if one country refuses entry, another will immediately accept you, or that border crossings can be arranged without paperwork. This is rarely true, and relying on such promises can leave refugees stranded, exposed, or vulnerable to further exploitation.
4. They Paint a Perfect Picture of Life Abroad
Stories of instant housing, generous financial support, and quick integration are common. For example, rumors circulate that every refugee in Germany receives €2,000 and a home upon arrival. While support programs exist, rebuilding a life in a new country usually involves months, if not years, of adjustment, work, and bureaucratic processes.
5. They Say You Will Have Immediate Work Opportunities
Traffickers often promise high-paying jobs upon arrival. In reality, refugees may face legal restrictions on work, language barriers, and fierce competition, often ending up in low-paying or exploitative labor.
6. They Claim Family Reunification Is Guaranteed
Many traffickers suggest that your family can join you easily in the destination country. In truth, family reunification processes are long, strict, and uncertain, and relying on false assurances can put both you and your loved ones at risk.
7. They Claim Legal Protection Is Assured
Refugees are often told that authorities or NGOs will protect them immediately. Traffickers may even pose as legal advisors, but in reality, victims are often left without guidance, making them vulnerable to detention, abuse, or deportation.
8. They Promise Freedom After “Repayment”
Traffickers may claim that any debt or service obligation will be temporary. Unfortunately, many victims remain trapped in cycles of exploitation, facing threats, debt bondage, or forced labor indefinitely.
9. They Pretend to Be Trustworthy Helpers
Some traffickers pose as friends, community members, or well-meaning guides. Gaining trust is a tactic to manipulate and control victims, making it harder for them to escape or seek help.
10. You will earn a lot of money quickly
Many traffickers promise refugees high-paying jobs abroad, creating hope of a better life. In reality, victims often end up in low-paying, exploitative, or even illegal work, trapped by debt or lack of options.
