A vigilante is a person who takes the law into their own hands, often acting outside of legal authority to enforce justice. They typically believe that the legal system is inadequate or ineffective in addressing crime or wrongdoing. Vigilantes may engage in activities such as apprehending criminals, conducting investigations, or even punishing offenders without official sanction. Vigilantism can be seen in various forms, from individuals acting alone to organized groups. This phenomenon is often depicted in popular culture, such as in comic books featuring characters like Batman or The Punisher, who embody the vigilante spirit by fighting crime outside the law.