Can banks ask why you are withdrawing money?

Are banks really allowed to inquire about the reasons behind your decision to withdraw money from your account? It's a common misconception that financial institutions can freely ask such questions, but is there a legal basis for this practice? Are there any regulations in place that protect individuals' privacy and financial autonomy when it comes to withdrawing their own funds? How do these rules vary from country to country, and what can customers do if they feel their rights have been violated? Understanding the legal framework behind these questions is crucial for anyone looking to safeguard their financial privacy.