What may trigger a "whistleblower" complaint?

A whistleblower complaint is typically initiated when an individual observes unethical behavior or violations of laws or organizational policies. This catalyst can stem from witnessing fraud, misconduct, or any action that harms the interests of stakeholders, including the organization itself or the public at large. Whistleblower protections are designed to encourage individuals to report these issues without fear of retaliation, highlighting the importance of reporting genuine concerns rather than personal vendettas or financial motivations.

In contrast, while personal grievances can lead some to report issues, they are usually not regarded as a valid basis for whistleblower complaints unless they directly relate to unethical or illegal actions. A desire for financial gain, although it can motivate some individuals to report, often raises concerns about the legitimacy of the complaint itself. An anonymous tip-off might be a means to report unethical behavior but does not actively trigger a whistleblower complaint in the same sense as personally observed wrongdoing. Therefore, the correct option reflects the foundational purpose of whistleblowing, which is to bring attention to harmful actions and violations.