Blackmail facts for kids

Blackmail is when someone threatens to share secrets or embarrassing information about you or someone you know. They do this to make you do what they want. This information might be true or false, and it's usually something that could cause trouble or embarrassment. Sometimes, the threats can even be about hurting someone physically or emotionally. People usually do this to get money, property, or power.

Blackmail is a type of extortion, which means getting something from someone by using threats. In many places, blackmail is against the law. People who do it can face serious consequences.

What Does "Blackmail" Mean?

The word "blackmail" comes from a long time ago, from the Scottish Borders. Back then, people paid "blackmail" to thieves and raiders. This payment was like a "protection fee" to stop them from attacking.

The "mail" part of the word comes from an old English word, male, which meant "rent" or "tribute." This payment was often made in goods or labor, not money. It was called "black" because it was a forced payment, unlike "white rent" which was paid freely in silver.

Some people think the word might also come from two Scottish Gaelic words: blathaich (to protect) and mal (tribute or payment).

Why Blackmail is a Crime

Some people might wonder why blackmail is illegal. It's because it combines two things that might seem okay on their own, but become wrong when put together.

For example, someone might have the right to tell others about a secret. And they might also have the right to ask for money. But when they threaten to tell a secret *unless* they get money, that becomes blackmail. It's wrong because it uses threats to control someone and get something unfairly.

Blackmail in the Digital World

Blackmail has become a big problem online, especially with cybercrime. It's easier for people to commit these crimes when they can hide who they are on the internet. This anonymity can make some people more likely to do bad things, like blackmail.

Online blackmail often involves spreading fake news or threatening to share private photos or messages. It's a serious issue because it can happen to anyone. Experts estimate that billions of online accounts are attacked every year. This means cybercriminals are always looking for new targets.

If you ever experience online blackmail, it's important to tell a trusted adult right away.

See Also

• Emotional blackmail
• Greenmail
• Webcam blackmail

In film

• Blackmail (1920 film)
• Blackmail (1929 film)