Princess Anne says governments and organizations have a ‘duty’ to protect citizens from fraud as she delivers speech at London summit

The Princess Royal has called for action against the ‘far-reaching impact of fraud on ordinary people around the world, especially those least equipped to defend themselves’.

Speaking at a summit in London this evening, Anne, 73, said how the crime “undermines the foundations of trust and integrity… and tarnishes the reputation of companies of all sizes”.

She implored that tackling the problem of fraud would not be a “simple challenge”, but stressed that both governments and private organizations have a “duty to protect citizens from it”.

“That requires a joint effort from the private sector and civil society,” the king’s sister added.

“Hopefully we strive together to create a future where the dignity and well-being of every individual is protected from exploitation.”

Anne added that ‘sometimes the key lies with the fraudsters themselves not taking their crime seriously’.

‘Fraudsters need to better understand how much damage can be done in this way.’

She was speaking at a pre-Global Fraud Summit reception at Guildhall in London.

Anne was sophisticated as ever in an all-blue ensemble for the occasion. She paired an azure blue dress with a floral print jacket, which appeared to come with a matching scarf.

The Princess Royal opted for simple black heels and styled her hair in a signature style. She wore black gloves and clutched an indigo clutch.

For a pop of color, the late Queen Elizabeth’s only daughter applied some bright lipstick.

She mingled with some of the attendees at the event, laughing sportily and enjoying conversation.

Home Secretary James Cleverly also attended the event and said: ‘Fraud is often overlooked. It often happens invisibly, often in a way that the victim is not aware of.

Speaking at a summit in London this evening, Anne, 73, said how the crime “undermines the foundations of trust and integrity… and tarnishes the reputation of companies of all sizes”.

She implored that tackling the problem of fraud would not be a “simple challenge”, but stressed that both governments and private organizations have a “duty to protect citizens from it”.

Anne added that ‘sometimes the key lies with the fraudsters themselves not taking their crime seriously’

Anne was sophisticated as ever in an all-blue ensemble for the occasion. She paired an azure blue dress with a floral print jacket, which appeared to come with a matching scarf

‘Victims may feel too ashamed to do anything about it, perhaps because they feel like they are foolish and that they somehow deserve what happened to them.

“This is the first time we are formally meeting internationally to work on how we fight fraud, how we prevent fraud and how we bring fraudsters to justice.

‘The main reason for actually getting together physically is that this is an opportunity to exchange notes, exchange ideas, exchange business cards and phone numbers.

“I’ve always said if you’re not networking, you’re not working, so please, please, take this opportunity to connect.”

The Princess Royal opted for simple black heels and styled her hair in a signature style. She wore black gloves and clutched an indigo clutch. For a pop of color, the late Queen Elizabeth’s only daughter applied some bright lipstick

Home Secretary James Cleverly also attended the event and said fraud is ‘often an overlooked crime’

Pictured: Home Secretary James Cleverly speaking at a Pre-Global Fraud Summit reception at Guildhall

Last week, the Princess Royal paid tribute to the ‘extraordinary’ Rob Burrow at a Rugby League reception to honor the community for their work to raise money for motor neurone disease.

Anne, who looked sophisticated in a chic red coat, appeared cheerful as she spoke on stage and chatted to Rob, 41, and his wife Lindsey at the event at Headingley Stadium in Leeds.

Anne praised the “most extraordinary example of Rob Burrow himself and Kevin Sinfield in raising awareness of a truly devastating diagnosis.”

In conversation with the BBC News Lindsey Burrow, Rob’s wife, said: ‘It’s a huge honor for Rob to be here today with the rugby community, with people who have supported him since his diagnosis.

She added: ‘A very special day and I know he will be very grateful for all the support.’

Speaking about her conversation with Princess Anne, she added: “She just asked us about the MNDA [Motor Neurone Disease Association] and how they supported us as a family.

‘She was talking to the children about having time off from school. Very down to earth, she was sweet.

“She talked about the fundraising Rob and Kevin had done. That’s why Rob told his story, to help people who had no voice and to increase awareness. People now know what MND is.’