What is the term for deception intended to cause someone to give up property or a lawful right?

The term 'fraud' refers to intentional deception designed to secure an unfair or unlawful gain, typically resulting in someone relinquishing property or a lawful right. It involves a deliberate misrepresentation of the truth or concealment of relevant facts, which misleads the victim into making decisions that they otherwise would not have made. This legal concept is critical in various contexts, including contractual agreements and financial transactions, as it encompasses a range of deceptive practices that can lead to significant legal consequences for the perpetrator.

In contrast, theft pertains specifically to the unlawful taking of someone else's property, without the element of deception. Misrepresentation involves providing false information, but it does not always imply intent to deceive for personal gain. Extortion refers to obtaining something through coercion or threats, rather than through misleading information. Understanding these distinctions reinforces the specificity of 'fraud' in contexts involving deceit for the purpose of unjust enrichment.