Title: What is extortion?
Headings: What is extortion?
What is extortion?
Extortion is defined as the act of obtaining something, especially money, through force, threats, or blackmail. Extortion is a crime, i.e illegal use of one's official position or powers to obtain property, funds, or patronage. Penalties for extortion vary by state, but defendants can face up to four years in prison. Learn more in our free legal guide below.
What are examples of extortion?
What are the differences between extortion and robbery?
What are the degrees of extortion?
What penalties might you face for extortion?
How is extortion proven?

Content: Cyber extortion is a federal crime with a fine or sentence of up to 20 years. How is extortion proven? The specific elements required to prove the crime of extortion differ between states, but the general requirements are that the offender maliciously (not mistakenly) make a verbal, written, or printed threat with the intent to extort something from the victim or to compel the victim to do something against his or her will. Generally, it is irrelevant whether or not the offender actually succeeds in the attempted extortion. Once the threat is made, the offender has committed extortion. In some jurisdictions, and under the federal extortion definition, the victim does not even have to hear or receive the threat in order for the offender to be charged with extortion. Extortion does not usually require that the offender threaten to commit a criminal act as long as the threat attempts to obtain money, property, or to force the victim to act against their will. For example, a threat to bring criminal charges or file a police report unless money is paid is still extortion, even though the offender may have every right to file a police report. By coupling the legal act with the illegal act of demanding payment to not act, the offender has committed extortion. Note, however, that a threat to file a civil lawsuit typically is not considered extortion even if that lawsuit is frivolous.