Fraud & Swindle

a flashy or impressive event that lacks substance or meaning

Last month, the CEO staged a dog and pony show to impress potential investors, but the company ultimately failed to deliver on its promises.

a person who lends money to people, typically under illegal conditions, at a very high rate of interest

The borrower is currently dealing with a loan shark who threatens physical harm if the loan isn't repaid on time.

the action of taking goods from a store without paying for them

She often considers using the five-finger discount to get the latest fashion trends without paying.

any activity or behavior that is considered suspicious, dishonest, or deceptive, often intended to deceive or cheat others

I suspect there's some funny business going on with the company's financial statements.

the use of misleading accounting methods to present a company's financial position in a more favorable light

Many companies engage in creative accounting practices to enhance their financial performance.

the process of concealing the origins, ownership, or destination of illegally obtained money by passing it through a legitimate financial institution or businesses

Criminal organizations engage in money laundering to disguise the illegal proceeds of their activities.

the act or practice of engaging in unethical or questionable business practices that are intended to gain an advantage over competitors or deceive customers

The company is being accused of sharp practice for misrepresenting shipping fees to unknowing online customers.

money that is offered to someone so that they do not share a piece of information or a secret with others

The politician had paid hush money to his mistress to keep her quiet about their affair.

an amount of money that is set aside to be used for dishonest or illegal activities

The company is suspected of maintaining a slush fund to pay off officials and secure government contracts.

to defeat a person or a group thoroughly, often in a very humiliating manner

The champion boxer took his opponent to the cleaners in the ring, winning the fight in the first round.

money that one gains without much effort and often by dishonest means

Many people believe that online trading is an avenue for easy money.

used to refer to a person, organization, etc. that uses dishonest or illegal methods to gain money

He is suspected of being on the fiddle, manipulating the accounts for personal gain.

money earned quickly or with ease, particularly in a dishonest way

He is always on the lookout for quick buck opportunities, jumping from one get-rich-quick scheme to another.