People are being warned of a scam which has seen callers claim they are medical professionals to con people out of their money.

Powys County Council’s Trading Standards Service has issued the warning to stop people handing over their money.

The latest scam has seen an elderly Ystradgynlais resident being contacted by a person claiming to be a doctor from Swansea Health Centre asking them to pay for a fictitious tablet.

The council’s Trading Standards Service is now urging residents not to disclose any personal details, including bank details, over the telephone. Anyone concerned about a health issue should visit their GP.

Cllr John Powell, Cabinet Member for Trading Standards, said: “Residents need to be vigilant about these unscrupulous activities. These individuals will try multiple methods to deceive people but they will particularly look for vulnerable or unsuspecting residents.

“These scammers have no morals, can be very persistent and can be very rude to residents if they don’t get what they want.

“Our advice to residents is to treat all unsolicited phone calls with scepticism and do not disclose any personal details, including bank details. If anyone has been contacted in this manner, then report the incident to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.”

To reduce the risks of falling for cold call scams, residents and businesses should follow the following tips:

- Be wary of unsolicited callers suggesting or implying that you are due money

- Never provide your personal details or bank details

- Don’t take unsolicited calls when you are busy and can’t give the salesman your full attention – if you want to talk, ask them to call back at a convenient time

- Don’t agree to something on the phone just to get rid of a persistent caller

- If you’re not clear about who you are speaking to, terminate the call.

For anyone who receives one of these calls and would like further advice they can contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03444 77 20 20 or report any potential fraud to Action Fraud which can be contacted at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.