BIG DATA IN THE FIGHT AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Today, there is a lot of attention on the front pages and in the media about how algorithms help detect human trafficking.
ABN AMRO, in collaboration with the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and the Social Affairs and Employment Inspectorate, has investigated how suspicious cases that could indicate human trafficking can be identified from the data known to the bank.
Since 2016, a complex search algorithm has been developed. This algorithm now includes approximately thirty variables or indicators of labor exploitation. One example is whether a paycheck is immediately followed by a withdrawal. This could mean that the account holder is required to hand over the paycheck immediately, or even that criminals have authorization and a card for the account. Another factor considered is the account holder's nationality.
Banks already provide this type of information upon request in human trafficking investigations.
But in the new setup, the opposite happens: without any concrete evidence, the bank searches through transfers in the computer system.
ABN AMRO has conducted an initial pilot program, and dozens of unusual situations have already been identified, which have been reported to the investigative service of the SZW Inspectorate.
Business Data Challengers itself supports an international project against human trafficking, the International Justice Mission (IJM).
IJM is the world's largest organization fighting slavery. In countries like India, the Philippines, Ghana, and Cambodia, IJM fights against forced labor, human trafficking for the sex industry, and child abuse for cybersex.
Learn more about our support for IJM at Involvement.
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