In modern online games, especially those that no longer have massive player counts, PvE quests play a critical role in keeping players engaged.
There’s a simple truth in gaming:
Players don’t quit because a game is difficult — they quit because they get bored. To prevent that, developers introduce structured activities like quests, missions, and objectives. These give players direction, progression, and a reason to keep playing.
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What Is The Extortionist Quest in Tarkov?
The Extortionist is an early-game task given by the trader Skier.
Quest Overview
- Trader: Skier
- Required Level: Level 7
- Main Goal: Retrieve a hidden folder (Folder 0048) and hand it over
At its core, this quest revolves around:
- Finding a specific key
- Unlocking a cabin
- Retrieving a hidden cargo folder
The structure is simple, but the execution requires map awareness and careful movement.
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The Extortionist Quest Objectives
Primary Objectives
- Find the hidden valuable cargo on Customs
- Hand over the cargo to Skier
Optional Objectives
- Locate the messenger’s body
- Find the exact location where the cargo was hidden
These optional steps are not required to complete the quest but can help you better understand the area and flow.
How to Complete The Extortionist Quest (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Locate the Messenger’s Key
To access the cargo, you first need a specific key.
Key Location Details
- Found on a hidden body inside bushes
- Area to search:
- Near the "Welcome to Tarkov" truck
- Close to the RUAF Roadblock (RAF extract)
Important:
You cannot buy this key from the Flea Market. You must find it yourself.
Step 2: Find the Locked Cabin on Customs
Once you have the key:
- Head toward the cabin near Customs
- This cabin contains the quest item
The cabin is locked, and the key you found is required to open it.
Step 3: Retrieve Folder 0048
Inside the cabin, you will find:
- Folder 0048 (quest item)
This is the main objective item required to complete the quest.
Step 4: Optional – Locate the Messenger’s Body
- The messenger’s body is located near the cabin area
- This step is optional but can help confirm you are in the correct location
Step 5: Extract and Hand Over the Item
After retrieving the folder:
- Safely extract from the raid
- Return to Skier
- Hand over Folder 0048
Once submitted, the quest is complete.
The Extortionist Quest Rewards
Here is everything you receive upon completion:
Experience & Reputation
- +3,200 EXP
- Skier Reputation +0.04
Currency Rewards
- $500 (base)
- $525 with Intelligence Center Level 1
- $575 with Intelligence Center Level 2
Weapons & Gear
- 1× Molot Arms VPO-209 (.366 TKM)
- 3× AK 7.62×39 30-round magazines
- 6× .366 TKM EKO ammo packs (20 rounds each)
- 1× BNTI Zhuk body armor (Press)
Unlocks
- Purchase of Remington Model 870 shotgun (Skier LL1)
Key Tips for Completing This Quest
Instead of following a rigid “perfect route,” this quest is more valuable as a learning experience.
Here’s what you should focus on:
- Learn Customs map layout while searching
- Practice safe movement between key landmarks
- Understand loot + extraction flow
- Build confidence navigating early-game hotspots
The real value of this quest isn’t just completion—it’s learning how Tarkov works.
Conclusion
The Extortionist is one of the first quests that introduces players to Tarkov’s core gameplay loop: exploration, risk, and reward.
While the objective is straightforward—find a key, unlock a cabin, retrieve a folder—the real takeaway is learning how to navigate Customs and handle early-game pressure.
Instead of rushing through it, take your time.
The experience you gain here will carry forward into every future raid.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What level do you need for The Extortionist quest?
You need to be at least level 7 to unlock this quest from Skier.
Can you buy the Extortionist key from the Flea Market?
No, the key cannot be purchased. You must find it on the messenger’s body.
Where is the Extortionist key located?
The key is found on a hidden body in bushes near the Welcome to Tarkov truck and RUAF Roadblock on Customs.
Is finding the messenger’s body required?
No, it is optional, but it can help you locate the key and confirm the area.
What is Folder 0048 in Tarkov?
Folder 0048 is the quest item you must retrieve from the locked cabin and hand over to Skier.