Do loan sharks still exist?

Is it still a common occurrence in today's society for individuals or organizations to engage in predatory lending practices, commonly referred to as loan sharking? Have advancements in financial regulation and technology effectively curbed the activities of these individuals, or do they continue to operate in the shadows, exploiting those in need of quick access to funding? Are there any specific industries or regions where loan sharking remains particularly prevalent, and what measures can be taken to protect vulnerable populations from falling victim to these harmful lending practices?