Kiristystä

Kiristys is a term used to describe the act of using threats or coercion to obtain money, property, or services from another person or organization. The execution of kiristys relies on the victim’s fear of harm, reputational damage, or other undesired consequences, which the perpetrator leverages to extract value.

The essential elements of kiristys typically include a threat, a demand for something of value, and the victim’s compliance or submission due to fear or coercion. Threats can involve violence or harm to a person or property, but may also include the exposure of damaging information, social or professional repercussions, or other adverse outcomes. Kiristys can be carried out in person, by phone, by mail, or through electronic communications, making it a crime that spans both traditional and digital environments.

In Finland, kiristys is a criminal offense. It is prosecuted under the general category of coercion and, depending on the severity and circumstances, may be punished with fines or imprisonment. When the offense involves aggravating circumstances—such as the use of violence, threats against a vulnerable target, or large sums—the act can be classified as törkeä kiristys (aggravated extortion), which carries heavier penalties.

Forms of kiristys include individual or organized actions, and can involve direct demands, protection schemes, or blackmail. The rise of cyberspace has given rise to cyber extortion, including ransomware demands, doxxing threats, or illicit demands for data access, often with cross-border elements.

Victims and authorities respond with police investigations, documentation of communications and threats, and cooperation with legal remedies. Prevention focuses on raising awareness, reporting suspicious requests, maintaining robust security practices, and safeguarding personal and organizational information.