Which of the following best defines the role of the CFPB?

The role of the CFPB, or Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, is best defined by its responsibility to oversee and enforce consumer financial protection laws. Established in response to the financial crisis of 2008, the CFPB aims to promote fairness and transparency for financial consumers by enforcing regulations that protect them from unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices in the financial sector. This includes areas such as mortgages, credit cards, student loans, and other financial products.

The CFPB achieves its mission through various activities, including rulemaking, supervision of financial institutions, enforcement of consumer protection laws, and educating consumers about their rights. By focusing on consumer protection, the CFPB works to ensure that consumers have access to the information they need to make informed financial decisions.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary function of the CFPB. While facilitating mortgage lending processes and assisting banks may be part of the broader financial landscape, these are not the main focus of the CFPB. Providing legal advice to consumers does not fall under the agency's responsibilities, as the CFPB helps ensure compliance with laws rather than offering individual legal counsel.