What are some examples of corruption?

Corruption manifests in myriad ways, often overlapping. Think of it like a layered cake of shady dealings. At the top, you have grand corruption – the big players, the politicians and CEOs, using methods like bribery to secure massive contracts or embezzlement to siphon off funds, all masked by intricate networks. This often involves influence peddling, using connections to sway decisions for personal gain. Access money, essentially payoffs for privileged information or meetings, fuels this level.

Beneath that lies systemic corruption, a more pervasive rot. Imagine everyday encounters: a traffic cop demanding a bribery to avoid a ticket (extortion), or a low-level official using their discretion to favor friends and family, leading to unfair awarding of permits (graft). Fraud and theft are equally common across all layers, from falsifying invoices to stealing public funds.

As a seasoned traveler, I’ve witnessed these in various forms across different countries. In some regions, blatant bribery is commonplace, openly negotiated, while in others, it’s more subtle, manifesting as “gifts” that expect reciprocal favors. It’s vital to be aware of these local nuances; understanding them isn’t condoning them but helps you navigate potentially risky situations. Remember, even seemingly small acts of corruption can have enormous consequences.

How to detect kickbacks?

Having traversed the globe and navigated countless marketplaces, I’ve learned to spot kickbacks like a seasoned sherpa spotting a hidden yak trail. The telltale signs are often subtle, but persistent.

Key indicators of kickbacks:

Suspicious Procurement: A lack of competitive bidding, or consistently ignoring lower bids, reeks of favoritism. Think of it like always choosing the most expensive camel caravan, regardless of the journey’s length or the caravan’s condition. This signals a potential backroom deal.
Oversight Gaps: Insufficient supervision during purchasing creates fertile ground for corruption. It’s like leaving a treasure chest unlocked in a busy bazaar – bound to attract unwanted attention (and pilferage).
Inflated Prices: Prices consistently exceeding market averages are a glaring red flag. Imagine paying ten times the going rate for a silk scarf in Samarkand – something’s amiss.
Unpopular Vendors: If a vendor is universally avoided due to poor reputation, yet chosen anyway, that’s a strong hint of something untoward. It’s like deliberately choosing a rickety boat for a perilous river crossing, despite warnings from local guides.
Troubled Vendors: Vendors with a history of legal or regulatory issues should raise serious concerns. It’s akin to employing a guide with a history of getting lost in the desert – a recipe for disaster.

Further Considerations:

Unusual Relationships: Look for unusually close personal or professional relationships between the purchaser and the vendor. This could be akin to finding out your tour guide and the hotel owner are brothers – potentially influencing decisions.
Unexplained Wealth: Sudden increases in wealth among purchasing agents warrant scrutiny. Similar to a previously impoverished guide suddenly flaunting expensive jewelry after a lucrative tour – where did that wealth originate?
Lack of Transparency: A culture of secrecy surrounding purchases is a dangerous sign. Openness and accountability are crucial in any transaction, just like the need for transparent maps and honest route descriptions when exploring uncharted territories.

What blocks are not affected by corruption?

So, you’re venturing into the treacherous lands tainted by Corruption and Crimson? Knowing what blocks stand firm against these encroaching evils is crucial for survival. Let me share some hard-earned knowledge from my extensive expeditions.

Wood, ash blocks, clay, silt, ores, obsidian, gems, and most brick types remain stubbornly untouched by the spreading blight. These are your reliable building materials in infected areas – think sturdy bastions against the encroaching darkness. Obsidian, in particular, is your best friend; its impervious nature makes it ideal for building safe havens. I’ve built entire underground fortresses using it – a truly worthwhile investment.

A word of caution, though: Pearlstone bricks are a different story. They’re surprisingly susceptible to the Hallow’s influence, actively spreading its pure, almost ethereal, corruption. Avoid using them near uninfected areas!

One unexpected ally in this fight for land is mushroom grass growing in mud blocks. This symbiotic relationship shields the mud from transforming into dirt, providing a surprising level of protection against the slow but steady advance of Corruption and Crimson. I’ve seen this firsthand, entire patches of mud persevering where surrounding dirt has succumbed.

What are some examples of kickback schemes?

Kickback schemes are unfortunately prevalent, even in the seemingly glamorous world of travel. While we usually focus on finding the best deals and hidden gems, understanding these schemes is crucial for responsible and ethical travel, both personally and professionally.

Here are some examples disguised as everyday occurrences, especially relevant to the travel industry:

Gifts & Favors: Think beyond the complimentary mini-bar. “Gifts” from hotels, tour operators, or airlines that exceed a nominal value—including lavish meals, concert tickets, or extravagant gift baskets—are often kickbacks in disguise. These can influence recommendations or reviews, ultimately harming the consumer.
Bribes: This might involve offering extra cash to secure a better hotel room, upgrade, or expedited service. It’s never worth it – you risk legal repercussions and undermine fair practices.
Overbilling & Inflated Prices: This is common in travel arrangements. A travel agent might inflate the cost of a flight or accommodation, pocketing the difference. Always independently verify prices.
Diverting Business: Imagine a travel blogger receiving payment to exclusively feature one hotel or airline regardless of its quality compared to alternatives. This deception compromises journalistic integrity and misleads readers.
Referral Schemes (Patient Referrals adapted to Travel): This could involve a travel agency receiving a commission for referring clients to specific services, even if inferior options exist at a lower cost. Transparency is key here. Always ask about any commissions or referral fees.
Conflicts of Interest: A travel writer secretly owning stock in a specific airline while writing glowing reviews, or a travel agent receiving benefits from a particular tour operator, are serious conflicts of interest. Independent reviews and unbiased advice are paramount.

Remember: Be wary of suspiciously generous offers. Independent research and comparison shopping remain crucial for avoiding such schemes and ensuring a truly ethical and enjoyable travel experience.

What did the corrupt Practices Act do?

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), a beast I’ve encountered in many a shady backroom deal across the globe, essentially outlawed bribery of foreign officials. It’s not just about outright cash, mind you. Think subtle “facilitation payments” – those little “gifts” that grease the wheels of bureaucracy – those are often covered too. The scope is vast.

Who’s affected? This isn’t some niche law. It targets US companies and individuals, as well as foreign companies listed on US exchanges. So, if you’re a multinational dealing in international markets, you’re in the FCPA’s crosshairs.

US Companies: Even if the bribe happens overseas, the act can still hold them accountable.
Foreign Companies: If they’re listed on US stock exchanges, they are also subject to the Act.
Individuals: Officers, directors, employees – everyone involved can face personal penalties.

What does it prohibit?

Bribing foreign officials: This is the core. Offering, promising, or giving anything of value to influence a foreign official’s decision.
Accounting provisions: The FCPA also demands accurate books and records. This is crucial; concealing bribes is a serious offense.

My personal note: Navigating the FCPA’s complexities demands careful planning and meticulous record-keeping. Ignorance is not a defense; compliance is paramount. Consider engaging competent legal counsel before embarking on any international business dealings.

How is corruption investigated?

Think of a corruption investigation like summiting a challenging peak. You need a thorough, systematic approach. Evidence is your map and compass; you’ve got to examine everything – the incriminating clues (inculpatory) and anything that might point away from guilt (exculpatory). This isn’t just a quick glance; we’re talking detailed scrutiny.

Your evidence toolkit includes:

Witness statements (testimonial evidence): These are like reports from fellow climbers – corroborating accounts strengthen your case, but you need to cross-check them for consistency and accuracy. Think triangulation!
Forensic evidence (fingerprints, financial records, etc.): This is like rock samples – concrete, irrefutable proof. It needs rigorous validation, like testing your gear before a major climb.
Documentary evidence (emails, contracts, etc.): This is your trail map – it provides context and can expose hidden routes of corruption.

For maximum reliability, your team needs a buddy system. Two investigators for each interview acts as a crucial safety check; one to conduct the interview, the other to observe, take notes, and act as a witness. This minimizes bias and ensures accuracy, much like having a climbing partner.

The process is demanding, but the goal is the same – reaching the summit of truth and justice.

Who has the most corruption?

The countries perceived as least corrupt, consistently scoring above 80 on relevant indices over the last four years, are Denmark, Finland, Singapore, New Zealand, Luxembourg, Norway, Switzerland, and Sweden. These nations often boast efficient and transparent government systems, making them generally safe and pleasant to visit. You’ll find well-maintained infrastructure, reliable services, and a strong sense of order. For example, Singapore‘s renowned for its cleanliness and efficient public transport, while Norway offers stunning natural beauty accessible via well-marked trails and reliable public transportation. Switzerland is a classic for its scenic landscapes and efficient rail network, and Denmark‘s cycling infrastructure is world-class. In contrast, countries like South Sudan, perceived as highly corrupt, present significantly greater risks for travelers, including issues with safety, infrastructure, and access to reliable services. It’s crucial to research specific risks before visiting any country and to prioritize safety and preparedness.

How to prove bid rigging?

Proving bid rigging, like uncovering a hidden gem on a backpacking trip, requires meticulous investigation. Direct evidence, akin to finding a treasure map (e.g., a participant’s confession), is the holy grail. However, more often, you need to piece together circumstantial evidence, much like assembling a complex jigsaw puzzle.

Suspicious bid patterns are key. Look for oddly similar bids, suspiciously low bids from certain companies, or bids that are consistently just above or below a competitor’s. These are red flags. Think of them as unusual landmarks on your journey pointing towards the truth.

Travel and expense reports: Examine these for meetings between competitors, particularly in unusual locations or at unusual times. These hidden rendezvous, like a secret meeting place in a remote village, are invaluable clues.
Telephone records: Frequent calls between competitors around bid submission deadlines indicate potential collusion, like a coded message system used by smugglers.
Business diary entries: These may contain veiled references to price-fixing or other forms of collusion, like cryptic notes in a traveler’s journal hinting at a hidden treasure.

Remember, like a seasoned explorer, you need to connect the dots. A single piece of circumstantial evidence might not be enough, but a compelling narrative built from multiple sources will form a robust case. Consider the context; was there a history of anti-competitive behavior among these bidders? This adds another layer of significance, similar to understanding the local customs on a backpacking trip.

Establish a timeline: Chronologically order suspicious events to show a pattern of collusion, similar to mapping your backpacking route.
Analyze market dynamics: Was the market unusually concentrated, making collusion easier? This is akin to knowing the terrain and challenges of a specific trail.
Consider witness testimony: Even if not direct evidence of collusion, it can provide context and strengthen the circumstantial evidence.

Does killing Plantera stop the corruption?

The fight against the jungle’s Plantera is a pivotal moment in any Terraria adventurer’s journey, but its impact on the encroaching Corruption and Crimson might surprise you. While these malevolent biomes creep along at a snail’s pace before Hardmode – limited to grass and thorny bushes – defeating the Wall of Flesh unleashes their full, ravenous potential. Suddenly, they’re consuming the world at an alarming rate, infecting a vast array of blocks.

Think of it like this: pre-Hardmode, it’s a slow, insidious rot, like watching a vine slowly strangling a tree. Post-Wall of Flesh, it’s a wildfire, fueled by the underworld’s chaotic energy. Now, here’s the crucial travel tip: taking down Plantera acts as a significant firebreak. It doesn’t stop the spread entirely, but it dramatically cuts the rate of infection in half – a 50% reduction in the speed of the encroaching darkness.

I’ve seen firsthand the devastation these biomes can wreak on otherwise pristine worlds. Entire biomes can be swallowed whole if left unchecked, leaving only a desolate, purple or crimson wasteland in their wake. So, while Plantera’s defeat isn’t a magical cure, it’s a crucial tactical victory in the long war against these insidious forces. Consider it a respite, a moment to regroup and strategize before tackling the next stage of your Terraria conquest – and remember to pack plenty of purification powder.

How do you prove corruption?

Proving petty corruption, a common affliction even in the most picturesque corners of the globe, requires meticulous observation and a touch of intrepidity. Think of it as a treasure hunt, but the treasure is evidence, and the danger is… well, let’s just say discretion is paramount.

Tangible Evidence:

Visuals: A grainy photo of a clandestine exchange in a dimly lit back alley? A surreptitiously recorded conversation detailing the bribe? These are the Rosetta Stones of corruption. In my travels, I’ve found that a good quality camera, hidden discreetly, is an invaluable tool. Remember to consider the legal implications of recording conversations in your destination.
Financial Records: While harder to obtain, tracing unusual financial flows – sudden unexplained wealth, for instance – can be a strong indicator. This requires a keen eye for inconsistencies and, perhaps, a bit of cunning to access the relevant information.

Intangible Evidence:

Witness Testimony: A whispered confession in a bustling souk, a disgruntled official spilling secrets over a shared cup of tea – these seemingly insignificant moments can be critical. Building trust with locals is essential here. Knowing the local customs and language is vital for gaining such insights. Often, the most valuable information isn’t shouted, but rather subtly hinted at.
Patterns and Anomalies: Corruption often leaves a trail not of smoke, but of inconsistencies. Notice things that don’t add up: a consistently delayed permit application, unexplained delays in projects, or unusually favorable treatment for certain individuals. These patterns, when documented meticulously, form a compelling case.

Important Considerations: Always prioritize your safety and remain aware of the legal ramifications of your actions. The pursuit of truth, while rewarding, can be perilous. Remember, in the shadowy world of petty corruption, every detail counts.

Do gray bricks stop corruption?

Gray Bricks are your best friend when building in the corruption, crimson, or hallow biomes. They’re incredibly easy to make – just stone blocks – and crucially, they act as a complete barrier against the spread of those nasty biomes. Think of them as a sturdy, easily-accessible bulwark against environmental decay. This makes them invaluable for creating safe bases or pathways in otherwise hazardous areas. Don’t underestimate their simplicity; their effectiveness in containing the spread of Corruption, Crimson, and Hallow makes them a foundational building block for any seasoned adventurer’s project in these difficult territories. Remember to stock up on stone before venturing into these biomes, as you’ll need plenty to build your gray brick defenses.

Which organizations enforce the Federal corrupt Practice Act?

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), a powerful tool against international bribery, is jointly enforced by two heavyweight US agencies: the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The SEC’s role primarily focuses on companies listed on US stock exchanges, ensuring they comply with the FCPA’s accounting provisions. This means meticulous record-keeping and internal controls are crucial; failing to maintain these can lead to hefty fines and legal battles.

The DOJ, on the other hand, takes the lead on prosecuting individuals and companies for the actual bribery offenses themselves. Their investigations often involve complex international collaborations, requiring navigating diverse legal systems and cultural nuances – something I’ve witnessed firsthand in my travels across Asia and Latin America where FCPA violations are sadly common.

Recent years have seen a surge in whistleblower cases, highlighting the increased effectiveness of reporting mechanisms. This is vital as many FCPA violations are initially hidden within complex corporate structures, often requiring inside information to uncover.

Crucially, the FCPA’s jurisdiction extends far beyond US soil. Companies and individuals operating globally can be held accountable for bribes paid to foreign officials, regardless of their nationality or the location of the bribe.

Implications for Businesses: Compliance requires robust anti-corruption programs, thorough due diligence on foreign partners, and comprehensive training for employees.
Global Reach: The FCPA’s long arm stretches across continents, affecting businesses from multinational corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in international markets. This is something I’ve seen repeatedly in my travels to emerging markets.
Whistleblower Protections: The SEC and DOJ offer significant protections for whistleblowers who report FCPA violations, making it safer to expose wrongdoing.

The combined efforts of the SEC and DOJ underscore the serious consequences of ignoring the FCPA; non-compliance can result in substantial fines, reputational damage, and even criminal charges. The globalized nature of business demands a deep understanding and adherence to this critical legislation.

What are some good kick back activities?

Forget mundane kickbacks. Think epic adventures! A movie night? Consider a screening under the stars in a remote desert location, perhaps incorporating local storytelling traditions. Gaming? Why not a geocaching expedition, turning your digital quest into a real-world exploration? A pool party? Picture a secluded lagoon in the tropics, swimming with bioluminescent plankton. Karaoke? Imagine belting out tunes in a bustling marketplace in a far-flung city, embracing the local culture. A bonfire? Envision a crackling fire on a windswept beach, with the ocean’s roar as your soundtrack. The possibilities are limitless. Consult travel blogs and forums, tap into local expertise, and always prioritize safety and responsible travel.

Don’t simply “blow up the group chat”—curate a truly unforgettable experience. Research visa requirements, consider sustainable tourism practices, and let the thrill of the unknown guide your decision-making. A successful kickback shouldn’t just be fun; it should be a memory to last a lifetime. Consider packing light, learning basic phrases in the local language, and respecting local customs. Remember, flexibility is key when exploring the world; be prepared to adapt your plans as needed.

What are the penalties for corruption?

Corruption penalties vary wildly depending on the court’s jurisdiction and the severity of the crime, a fact I’ve witnessed firsthand in my travels. It’s a murky world, friends, and the legal landscape is often as treacherous as the terrain.

In this particular region, the punishments are tiered:

High Court: A fine, or imprisonment ranging from a significant term to life imprisonment. I’ve seen cases where even seemingly minor infractions escalated to lengthy sentences due to aggravating circumstances, like abuse of power or significant financial gain. The prosecution’s strength here is usually considerable.
Regional Court: A fine, or imprisonment of up to 18 years. This court handles a broader range of cases, and the sentences reflect that variety. Bribery, for example, might see a lesser sentence than embezzlement involving large sums.
Magistrates’ Court: A fine, or imprisonment up to 5 years. This court typically handles less severe offenses. Think petty corruption, minor infractions – though the definition of “minor” can be surprisingly elastic.

Important Note: These are just the *penalties*. The process of getting to a conviction is often a long and arduous journey, fraught with delays and bureaucratic hurdles. Furthermore, the actual penalties imposed can be influenced by mitigating factors, the defendant’s cooperation with authorities, and the overall legal climate of the specific region. Always consult with a local legal professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How do I know if I am under FBI investigation?

So, you’re wondering if the FBI is sniffing around? Let’s be clear: it’s not something you’d easily miss. Unlike that time you almost missed your flight to Machu Picchu (remember the frantic taxi ride?), this is a significantly more serious situation.

Two primary ways you’ll know:

Receiving a Target Letter: This isn’t a postcard from your aunt Mildred. This is official notification from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, stating you’re a subject of a federal grand jury investigation. Think of it as a less pleasant version of that coveted travel visa – only this one comes with significantly less freedom of movement.
Visit from Federal Agents: This isn’t your friendly neighborhood travel agent dropping by with brochures. Agents from agencies like the FBI or IRS will show up at your home or workplace. Often, they’ll have a search warrant—a legal document allowing them to search your property. This is far less romantic than stumbling upon a hidden temple in the Cambodian jungle.

Think of it this way: if you’re being investigated, it’s not a situation you can easily ‘wing it’ like that backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. It requires a different kind of preparation – legal counsel, preferably. Unlike packing light, this is a situation where having a heavy legal team is absolutely necessary.

Important Note: The FBI generally doesn’t announce investigations beforehand. If someone calls claiming to be from the FBI and demands information or money, it’s almost certainly a scam—a far less exciting adventure than a genuine investigation.

What is shill bidding?

Having trekked across countless marketplaces, from bustling souks to online auction houses, I’ve witnessed the underbelly of commerce firsthand. Shill bidding, my friends, is a particularly insidious form of deception. It’s the art – or rather, the crime – of a seller secretly placing bids on their own items to inflate the final price. Think of it as a phantom bidder, a digital ghost in the machine, artificially boosting the perceived value.

The anonymity afforded by the internet makes this particularly easy. Sellers can create multiple fake accounts, each a masked identity bidding against… themselves. This creates a false sense of competition, luring unsuspecting buyers into a bidding war that ultimately benefits only the seller. I’ve seen this tactic employed on everything from rare stamps to vintage cameras, even once on a supposedly one-of-a-kind Tibetan prayer wheel (suspiciously, there were multiple near-identical bids).

Spotting shill bidding is tricky. Look for unusually rapid bidding sequences late in the auction, a pattern of bids precisely matching the minimum bid increments, or suspiciously high bids from unfamiliar accounts with little or no bidding history. While it’s difficult to prove definitively, these red flags should make you pause before placing a bid – remember, the journey of a good deal is often paved with caution.

Who is the most corrupt leader in history?

Determining the “most corrupt” leader is inherently subjective, lacking a universally agreed-upon metric. However, Suharto’s case stands out as a potent example. Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly’s decree (No. XI/MPR/1998) directly implicated him, demanding investigations into his alleged corruption. This wasn’t a mere whisper; it was a formal governmental acknowledgment of widespread suspicion.

Transparency International’s 2004 Global Transparency Report further fueled the controversy, ranking him among the world’s most corrupt leaders. While such rankings are debated, the report highlighted the scale and systematic nature of the alleged corruption under his 32-year rule. This wasn’t simply embezzlement; it involved intricate networks of cronyism, enriching his family and associates while hindering Indonesia’s development.

The sheer longevity of his reign amplified the impact. Decades of alleged corruption created a deeply entrenched system, leaving a legacy of economic inequality and societal damage that continues to affect Indonesia. This isn’t just about numbers in a report; it’s about the lasting consequences of systemic abuse of power.

Consider these factors often associated with Suharto’s regime:

Cronyism: Favoring family and close associates in business deals and awarding lucrative contracts.
State-Owned Enterprises: Mismanagement and siphoning of funds from state-owned companies.
Resource Exploitation: Allegations of illicit enrichment through the exploitation of Indonesia’s natural resources.
Lack of Accountability: A political system which lacked effective checks and balances, enabling widespread impunity.

It’s crucial to note that while many leaders have faced accusations of corruption, the combination of official condemnation, widespread reporting, and the scale and duration of the alleged abuses under Suharto’s regime contribute to his prominent position in discussions surrounding historical corruption.

How to detect collusion?

Detecting collusion requires a seasoned eye, much like spotting a forged passport in a bustling souk. Post-assessment debriefs are your key interrogation, a chance to cross-examine your subjects. Think of it as a high-stakes game of Twenty Questions, where inconsistencies are your telltale signs. Sudden shifts in explanations, particularly concerning complex or nuanced details – the equivalent of a shaky alibi – are red flags. A student who initially struggles with a concept, only to suddenly master it with uncanny accuracy, has likely received outside help. This isn’t just about blatant copying; it’s about subtle shifts in understanding that defy the natural learning curve. Remember, inconsistencies aren’t always obvious; they’re often veiled in carefully constructed narratives. Look for unusual similarities in answers, almost like echoes in a crowded marketplace – the same unique phrasing, the same quirky mistake replicated across multiple papers. These seemingly small details, easily overlooked by the inexperienced, often reveal a shared source. The art lies in recognizing patterns, in developing the investigative instinct honed through years of observing human behavior, from the bustling markets of Marrakech to the quiet classrooms of academia.

What are the signs of a kleptocracy?

Kleptocracy’s hallmark is the blatant disregard for public funds. I’ve seen it firsthand in various corners of the globe – the ostentatious displays of wealth starkly contrasting with widespread poverty. Think gleaming presidential palaces next to crumbling hospitals, luxury yachts bobbing beside fishing boats barely afloat. This isn’t just about a ruler’s lavish lifestyle; it’s a systematic looting of the national coffers. Funds earmarked for infrastructure, education, or healthcare are diverted into private accounts, often stashed offshore in opaque financial havens. The lack of transparency is key; budgets are shrouded in secrecy, making accountability impossible. You’ll often find a network of cronies and family members enriching themselves through rigged contracts and sweetheart deals, creating a system where the ruling elite thrive while the populace suffers. This isn’t simply corruption; it’s the complete erosion of the social contract, leaving citizens with little recourse against their exploitative leaders. The absence of independent media and a robust judicial system further exacerbates the situation, allowing kleptocrats to operate with impunity.

What kickbacks are illegal?

Kickbacks are illegal payments—bribes, essentially—given to someone to influence their actions. Think of it as a secret payment to ensure you get preferential treatment, a service, or a favor. This often involves cash, but it could be anything of value: a fancy dinner, a discounted vacation package (like that suspiciously cheap all-inclusive I once saw advertised near a government building…), a free upgrade on a flight, or even a seemingly innocent gift. The key is secrecy and the intent to influence a decision that should be based on merit, not on a hidden payment. I’ve learned that in some countries, even seemingly small gestures of hospitality can be viewed as illegal kickbacks if they’re tied to a decision affecting business or public services. Always be aware of local customs and laws regarding gifts and gratuities, particularly when dealing with officials or those in positions of power, as regulations vary significantly worldwide. Transparency is key; avoid situations where there’s even the appearance of impropriety.

Remember, what might seem like a harmless gesture in one culture could be a serious legal offense in another. For example, a lavish business lunch that’s common practice in some places might be considered a kickback in countries with stricter anti-corruption laws. Do your research before you travel, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution.