ROGUE traders have been impersonating NHS staff to try and con people out of cash by offering to do their shopping for them or asking for donations.

Reports of fraudsters trying to cash in on the current lockdown have been revealed by East Lothian Council as it warns residents “it is not rude to shut your door”.

They said there had been reports of people going door to door pretending to be NHS workers collecting donations towards a vaccine or offering to shop for money.

Other scams revealed are people cold calling residents offering to spray their front paths and driveways with an anti-bacterial treatment.

The council urged people to be on the alert for con artists and report any suspicious callers to Police Scotland.

They said: “Remember – you are not being rude if you shut the door on unsolicited callers.

“NHS staff will not turn up at your door unannounced and ask you for money or donations.

“If someone that you don’t know knocks on your door and offers to buy groceries for you, don’t pay them up front. Any genuine good Samaritan will be happy to accept payment once they have delivered your shopping to you.

“If you feel feel uncomfortable or suspicious, call Police Scotland on 101. If you feel threatened or unsafe at any time, call 999.”

Worried residents can also report any potential scammers to Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or through their website.