SICKENING scammers are targeting vulnerable people in Argyll and Bute who use 'telecare' remote support services, health chiefs have warned.

Bosses at the area's health and social care partnership (HSCP) are worried that those who rely on such systems when they need help may be particularly vulnerable to fraudsters.

The scam reportedly involves a cold caller contacting a telecare service user and warning them that their current system is obsolete, before telling them that they need to pay for a new alarm.

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A spokesperson for the HSCP said: “Given the vulnerability of telecare service users, there is a high risk that they may provide bank details to the scammers.”

As with all telephone scam attempts, the key piece of advice is never, under any circumstances, to give your bank details to a stranger who calls you out of the blue.

If you believe you have been victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately and contact Police Scotland on 101.