Lending at high interest rates is a business practice that has been around for centuries. It is commonly known as usury, loan sharking, or predatory lending. Other terms that describe the practice include loan extortion, loan gouging, and loan exploitation. These synonyms all convey the same idea - taking advantage of someone's financial need by charging exorbitant interest rates that lead to debt bondage. While these practices are considered illegal in many countries, they still occur in underground economies. It is important for borrowers to be aware of the risks associated with high-interest lending and seek out reputable lenders who offer fair and transparent lending options.