HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) - A major human trafficking investigation in Hartford has resulted in seven arrests and the safe recovery of three teenage girls.

Police say the case is part of a disturbing trend as traffickers increasingly use social media and messaging apps to target victims, often without their families realizing.

While the three girls were returned safely to their families, experts say the case underscores just how prevalent and invisible modern trafficking has become.

Nadine Thomas, executive director of Underground New England, a nonprofit that supports trafficking victims across Connecticut, said her organization is currently helping 24 survivors from 20 different communities.

She says parents should look out for sudden changes in their child’s mood, secretive behavior,

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