Which term describes the act of demanding money or other considerations to influence a business decision through the use of force or fear?

• A. Illegal gratuity
• B. Bribery
• C. Kickback scheme
• D. Economic extortion

Answer: (D)

Extortion through coercive demands to influence a business decision is being tested. This is economic extortion: someone pressures another party by using force or fear to extract money or other benefits in order to sway a decision. That coercive, fear-based element distinguishes it from bribery, where the influencer is offered something of value to secure favorable action, and from illegal gratuity or kickback schemes, which involve gifts or hidden payments rather than direct threats to compel a decision. The emphasis on demanding payment under threat in a business context is what makes economic extortion the best fit.