Which statement indicates a working condition red flag?

• A. Isn’t allowed to communicate with family or friends
• B. Not paid for work
• C. Is doing a different job than expected
• D. Papers or travel documents confiscated

Answer: (C)

A working conditions red flag occurs when a worker is forced to perform tasks different from what was agreed, signaling coercion and exploitation in the job. This mismatch shows the worker isn’t free to do the work they agreed to and is being controlled by others, which is a hallmark of trafficking in labor. It points to deception about the job and a deliberate removal of the worker’s autonomy in the workplace.

The other indicators—being prevented from communicating with family, not being paid, or having papers confiscated—are also serious signs of trafficking or coercion, reflecting control, financial exploitation, or isolation. However, the direct shift to a different job highlights the exploitation of labor itself within the workplace, which is the core concern of a working-condition red flag in this context. In practice, noticing such a mismatch should prompt immediate follow-up to verify the terms of employment, duties, and assurances made during recruitment, ensuring workers’ rights and contract compliance.