TRADING Standards and police are warning Ayrshire residents to be on the alert over a new telephone scam.

The scammer claims to be offering a "free" medical emergency wristband or pendant - the type you press to call emergency services after a fall.

The scammer may allege to be a health worker, and may even know some details of the person they are calling.

Card details are then requested from the recipient - for an 'installation fee' or 'subscription costs'.

Having gained these card details, fraudulent transactions then begin.

Residents are being reminded that local authorities will never ask for bank details from an unsolicited phone call.

Anyone who has already passed on bank details should call their bank immediately on a number they know to be correct.

Anyone unsure about a call should hang up, clear the line and call the publicly listed number of the alleged company claimed.

Any criminality should be reported on 101. For more information go to https://orlo.uk/BTcwu.