Extortion blackmail difference

Extortion and blackmail are both forms of coercion or duress, but they have some key differences:

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 information.
• Extortion can be committed by individuals, groups, or organizations, and can take many forms, including robbery, kidnapping, or fraud.
• The primary goal of extortion is often to obtain a tangible benefit, such as money or property.

Blackmail:

• Blackmail is the act of using information or threats to coerce someone into doing something they do not want to do.
• It typically involves the use of secrets, embarrassing information, or compromising material to extort something of value, such as money, favors, or silence.
• Blackmail can be committed by individuals, and is often used to gain an advantage or to punish someone.
• The primary goal of blackmail is often to obtain a non-tangible benefit, such as power, influence, or revenge.

Key differences:

• Extortion typically involves the use of physical force or threats of violence, while blackmail involves the use of information or threats to coerce someone.
• Extortion is often used to obtain a tangible benefit, while blackmail is often used to obtain a non-tangible benefit.
• Extortion is often committed by individuals or groups, while blackmail is often committed by individuals.

Examples:

• A gangster demands money from a business owner under threat of physical harm. This is an example of extortion.
• A former employee threatens to reveal embarrassing information about a company unless they are given a large sum of money. This is an example of blackmail.

It's worth noting that both extortion and blackmail are illegal and can have serious consequences for those who engage in them.