Backpage.com website victims being compensated for human trafficking.
The United States Department of Justice is leading a remission program for victims and survivors who were trafficked on the website known as Backpage.com. This effort has now become the largest program launched to compensate victims of human trafficking.
Between January 1, 2004, and April 6, 2018, the Backpage website was the most popular source of “prostitution-related advertisements.” Throughout Backpage’s 14-year lifespan, numerous users successfully facilitated commercial sex and sex trafficking, including trafficking of minors. After Backpage was taken down, a new site emerged in its place: CityXGuide. Now, anyone trafficked through either of these defunct websites may be eligible for compensation.
Through the Department of Justice’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, over $200 million in assets forfeited from both webpages will be used to compensate victims and survivors. Those eligible may receive funds dedicated to mental health treatment, medical care, tattoo removal, lost wages, and other documented costs tied to trafficking.
The websites “will no longer serve as a platform for human traffickers to thrive, and those who were complicit in its use to exploit human beings for monetary gain will be held accountable for their heinous actions,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “Whether on the street or on the Internet, sex trafficking will not be tolerated. Together with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to vigorously combat this activity and protect those who are victimized.”
Survivors are required to submit a petition before February 2, 2026, to the Department of Justice’s remission process to be considered for financial compensation.
In order to assist with the stress survivors may feel during this process, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) has committed to partnering with law firms in order to provide support. Lawyers will ensure this paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time, and all services are free of cost.
Authors: Alexis Kabat and Andy Goldwasser
