Vote buying is the practice where individuals or groups offer money, goods, or services to voters in exchange for their votes. This illegal activity undermines the democratic process by influencing voters' choices based on financial incentives rather than their beliefs or preferences. Governments and organizations around the world work to combat vote buying, as it can lead to corruption and a lack of trust in elections. Laws and regulations are established to penalize those who engage in this practice, ensuring that elections remain fair and representative of the people's will.