In compliance terms, what is bribery?

Bribery, in compliance terms, refers to the act of offering something of value to influence the actions of an individual in a position of power. This can involve cash, gifts, favors, or any form of incentive intended to sway decisions or behaviors unlawfully or unethically. The core of bribery is the corrupt bargain that undermines trust and fairness, particularly in business, government, or any scenario where decisions have ethical implications.

Understanding bribery is crucial because it poses significant risks to organizations, including legal repercussions, damage to reputation, and loss of trust. Preventive measures against bribery often involve clear policies, ethical training, and mechanisms for reporting misconduct. The other options relate to compliance practices but do not directly define bribery, illustrating different aspects of ethical governance and regulatory adherence without touching on the act of offering inducements to gain favor or influence decisions.