A "kickback" is a form of bribery where someone receives a payment or benefit in exchange for facilitating a transaction or decision. This often occurs in business or government settings, where an individual may influence a contract or service in favor of another party, typically for personal gain. Kickbacks are illegal and unethical because they undermine fair competition and can lead to corruption. They can involve various forms of compensation, such as money, gifts, or services, and are often hidden to avoid detection by authorities or regulatory bodies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).