Run afoul of something
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Legal Trouble
Suggests serious consequences, often involving police or courts. 
He ran afoul of the law by evading taxes.
Pro Tip 2/3Professional Risk
Implies risk to one's job or professional standing. 
She'll run afoul of her company's policies with her actions.
Pro Tip 3/3Regulatory Issues
Refers to conflicts with official rules or guidelines. 
Their restaurant might run afoul of health regulations.