Finally, the source of the unreported assets cannot be derived from illegal activity. (For this purpose, the proceeds of a tax evasion scheme from a legitimate business are not deemed to be from an illegal activity.) If all of these elements of voluntary disclosure are met, the IRS generally will not prosecute the taxpayer for the noncompliance.

FORBES: Expert View

The army claims its purpose is to suppress drugs-trafficking and illegal immigration.

ECONOMIST: Thailand's election

In 2011 Canada made it illegal to possess or import anything (from chemicals to beakers) with the purpose of making meth or MDMA, the active ingredient in ecstasy.

ECONOMIST: The methamphetamine business

The original purpose of anti-money-laundering laws was to reduce the incentive for illegal behavior by making it more difficult for crooks to enjoy their ill-gotten gains.

FORBES: The $7 Billion Laundry Bill