In whistleblower cases, an enforcement action is when a government agency takes legal steps to punish violators, which could involve fines, penalties, or other sanctions against those who retaliated against the informant. Enforcement actions also help the whistleblower and deter future retaliation through job reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, or other remedies for the harm suffered. Examples include fines, cease-and-desist orders, or even debarment from government benefits.