Vigilante justice refers to the act of individuals taking the law into their own hands, often in response to perceived injustices or failures of the legal system. This can involve actions such as punishing criminals without legal authority, often motivated by a desire for revenge or to protect their community. While some view vigilante justice as a necessary response to crime, it raises significant ethical and legal concerns. It can lead to a cycle of violence and undermine the rule of law, as individuals may not have the training or authority to make fair judgments, potentially harming innocent people in the process.