Threats

[malagabob]

Is it a criminal act, to threat someone with exposing their criminal past to family, friends and the wider public, for monetary gain, even if the criminal past is genuine.

[barry1010]

Yes, causing distress or alarm is a criminal offence as is blackmail

[malagabob]

Thanks barry

[Peter Pedant]

yes
this is blackmail

I dont want to do the statute chapter and verse bit - clearly unlawful ( monetary gain)

OK attempted blackmail

On a difft tack, one of my neighbours had a shady past and said - years ago, "You know Coleen ( you know Coleeeeeen, that one!) she lost her phone. "
and I said - handling stolen goods
and he said " no no, listen. someone found it and thought Oh I will ring them and charge a return fee"
and I said and they were done for handling
" yeah how you know dat?"

and here it is....
https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2011/aug/30/man-blackmail-coleen-rooney-mobile
blackmail