(7)Within the framework of its administrative functioning, ESMA may conduct a number of investigations, such as administrative inquiries, disciplinary proceedings, preliminary activities related to financial fraud, investigations relating to whistleblowing or harassment cases, internal audits, data protection or ethics investigations, ICT investigations, information security investigations and activities performed in the context of security risks and incidents management. In addition, for the exercise of its missions, ESMA conducts investigations relating to its direct supervisory or enforcement functions and may conduct investigations of potential breaches of Union law as well as inquiries into a particular type of financial activity or type of product or conduct in order to assess potential threats to the integrity of financial markets or the stability of the financial system.