Extortionists refer to individuals who use threats, coercion, or intimidation to obtain money or other benefits from someone. There are several synonyms for this term that can be used depending on the context of the situation. These include blackmailers, shakedown artists, racketeers, con artists, fraudsters, and grifters. Blackmailers specifically use personal or sensitive information to extort money or gain leverage over an individual. Shakedown artists and racketeers typically target businesses or other organizations by demanding payments in exchange for "protection" or the prevention of harm. Con artists and fraudsters use deceit to trick individuals into giving them money. Grifters can refer to a variety of schemes that involve dishonesty and deception aimed at obtaining money or goods.