Algorithmic Exploitation in Social Media Human Trafficking and Strategies for Regulation

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

This would have been a good introduction to an empirical project since you have drawn in literature from other domains. This could be built into a conceptual framework. By itself, a thematic literature review with scant sources cannot be a stand-alone article. My advice is to design an empirical study built on this conceptual framework - a study that tests your hypotheses empirically.

Author Response

all comments have been highlighted throughout the paper. 

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

This article is about Human Trafficking, yet at the introduction the author refers to the ILO report that mainly refers to forced labour than all types of exploitation. I would highly advise to refer to the UNODC Global report on Human Trafficking and not refer the concept of Modern Slavery, since it is different from the concept of Huma Trafficking. Furthermore, since the article is on the issue of social networks which is considered borderless, I would make a reference to the definition of the Human Trafficking Protocol

Author Response

all concerns have been highlighted throughout the paper

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 3 Report

The author(s) does a good job of reviewing the literature and research on the use of social media to facilitate human trafficking.  What is missing is more extensive consideration of if and how government entities, and particularly law enforcement, could and should intervene proactively to help prevent and deter social media use to exploit trafficking victims.  Such discussion seems warranted, given the current controversies about government regulation of social media more generally.  It would also be particularly timely given the recent (April 2024) National Institute of Justice (USDOJ) solicitation requesting studies of human trafficking and technology.

Author Response

all concerns have been highlighted throughout the paper

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Satisfied with the revisions.

Reviewer 2 Report

All the requirements were fulfilled, the article can be published in its present form. 

Reviewer 3 Report

A concern in my initial review has been addressed.