TRADING standards north of the border have announced the rollout of a call blocking device to help protect vulnerable consumers.

Dumfries and Galloway Council is supporting Trading Standards Scotland in its #Shutoutscammers campaign.

A spokesman for trading standards said: "Unsolicited calls are one of the most popular methods used by scammers and unscrupulous businesses to reach people.

"Although we are all susceptible to being scammed, people with cognitive impairment such as dementia are most at risk.

"Shutting out scam calls can give vulnerable people confidence and peace of mind."

Around 280 trueCall call blocking devices for phones are available, free of charge for those that need them.

To apply for one go online to: www.tsscot.co.uk/call-blockers/