Difference between extortion and blackmail

Extortion and blackmail are both forms of coercion or intimidation, but there are some key differences between the two:

Extortion:

• Extortion is the act of obtaining something from someone by using force, threats, or intimidation.
• It typically involves the use of physical force, violence, or the threat of violence to obtain something of value, such as money, property, or services.
• Extortion can be committed by individuals, groups, or organizations, and can be motivated by a variety of reasons, including financial gain, revenge, or political or ideological beliefs.
• Extortion is often considered a criminal offense and can result in severe legal consequences.

Example: A gangster demands money from a business owner, threatening to harm their family if they don't comply.

Blackmail:

• Blackmail is the act of obtaining something from someone by threatening to reveal a secret or embarrassing information about them.
• It typically involves the use of threats, intimidation, or coercion to obtain something of value, such as money, property, or services.
• Blackmail can be committed by individuals, and is often motivated by a desire for financial gain or to exert power over the victim.
• Blackmail is also considered a criminal offense and can result in legal consequences.

Example: A person discovers a politician's secret affair and threatens to reveal it to the public unless they are given a large sum of money.

Key differences:

• Extortion typically involves the use of physical force or violence, while blackmail involves the use of threats or intimidation.
• Extortion is often motivated by a desire for financial gain or revenge, while blackmail is often motivated by a desire for power or control.
• Extortion can result in physical harm or injury, while blackmail typically results in emotional distress or reputational damage.

It's worth noting that the terms "extortion" and "blackmail" are often used interchangeably, but technically, extortion refers to the use of force or violence, while blackmail refers to the use of threats or intimidation.