What is an example of crimes that HSI investigates in relation to financial offenses?

The investigation of financial offenses by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) encompasses a broad range of criminal activities that disrupt and exploit the financial system. The correct answer highlights two significant categories: money laundering and fraud.

Money laundering involves the process of making illegally obtained money appear legitimate, which is often linked to other criminal activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and organized crime. HSI has the authority to investigate these financial transactions to identify the origin of the illicit funds and disrupt the financial networks supporting these criminal enterprises.

Fraud covers various deceptive practices aimed at securing an unfair or unlawful gain, including but not limited to identity theft, mortgage fraud, and investment fraud. HSI uses its resources and expertise to tackle these sophisticated financial crimes which often have far-reaching effects on individuals, businesses, and the economy as a whole.

While other options may touch on aspects of financial crime, they do not adequately encompass the breadth and complexity of offenses that HSI actively investigates. Thus, focusing on both money laundering and fraud illustrates the wide-ranging scope of HSI's mandate in handling financial crimes.