Tougher police powers to crack down on kerb crawling have been introduced in Northern Ireland.
Men who use prostitutes that have been forced into the profession will also be liable for prosecution under the new laws.
The measures are part of UK-wide legislation in the Policing and Crime Act 2009.
Northern Ireland Criminal Justice Paul Goggins said the powers, which come into force on 1 April, strengthen the government's strategy in tackling prostitution and trafficking for sexual exploitation.
"Men who pay for sex with a woman who is exploited by force, deception or threats will no longer be able to use the excuse 'I did not know' - they will face up to £1,000 fine and will have a criminal record," he said.
"Dealing with human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable women is a high priority and part of the Government's strategy for tackling the demand for prostitution. These tough new laws will bring greater protection to those who are subjected to exploitative conduct.
"These new measures will also give the police more powers as they no longer have to prove that kerb-crawlers, either in a vehicle or on foot, are being persistent before arresting them."
© Press Association