Introduction
One’s understanding of illegal activities enables one to avoid common missteps that lead to disastrous outcomes and attract unwanted attention from malicious actors. Extortion is a common element within highly organized crime groups that comes in the form of payment demands supplemented with threats of violence (Estévez-Soto, 2021). By knowing the nature of this crime, it is possible to resist such attempts and protect one’s capital and business from unlawful elements.
Discussion
It is essential to comprehend how one becomes a target for extortion activities. In order to turn to this type of crime, an individual or an organization must possess a significant influence (Hagan & Daigle, 2019). For example, it is possible for both organized gangs and corrupted authorities to turn to blackmail due to their ability to threaten others with severe consequences for non-compliance. Such activity is often done with the intent to exploit vulnerable parts of the population.
There are several vital factors that protect one from being involved in extortion. First, blackmailing often relies on access to sensitive data, such as private business information or health records (Hagan & Daigle, 2019). Heightened digital security measures can provide sufficient defense against extortion. For example, restrictions on physical access to data centers or the use of the latest encryption protocols are feasible approaches to preventing blackmailing opportunities. In addition to preserving information privacy, people must avoid knowingly dealing with criminals, as they can inadvertently reveal themselves as feasible targets for shakedowns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, extortion poses a significant threat to people and businesses that have their personal information exposed. Blackmailing is a standard tool in organized crime, as it relies on one’s ability to threaten with severe consequences for non-compliance. The targeted parties can counteract this type of unlawful activity efficiently by avoiding deliberate contact with criminals and increasing their digital security measures. Reporting such interactions and cooperating with authorities are essential parts of preventing their further occurrences.
References
Estévez-Soto, P. R. (2021). Determinants of extortion compliance: Empirical evidence from a victimization survey. The British Journal of Criminology, 61(5), 1187-1205. Web.
Hagan, F. E., & Daigle, L. E. (2019). Introduction to criminology: Theories, methods, and criminal behavior (10th ed.). SAGE Publications.