What is a pizzo?
Career: Pizzo
Pizzo is an Italian term that refers to money paid as protection money to the Mafia, particularly in Sicily. It is a form of extortion where businesses are forced to pay the Mafia in exchange for 'protection' or to avoid trouble. The payment is illegal, and refusing to pay can result in threats or violence. Many businesses have historically felt pressured to comply, but anti-Mafia organizations and law enforcement are working to combat this practice.