Racketeering refers to the act of running an illegal business or scheme, often involving organized crime. It typically includes activities like extortion, fraud, and money laundering, where individuals or groups profit from illegal operations. The term is commonly associated with organized crime syndicates, which may use threats or violence to maintain control over their activities. In the United States, racketeering is addressed under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), which allows law enforcement to target and prosecute individuals involved in ongoing criminal enterprises. This law aims to dismantle organized crime by holding leaders accountable for the actions of their associates.