The conman, claiming to be from “Midlothian police”, called a solicitors’ office in Edinburgh and asked for donations for local children.
Staff suspected the caller was a fraudster and challenged him, at which point he hung up.
A police spokesman said of the call on Wednesday morning: “Local businesses and residents should be wary of any similar approaches and report any suspicious incidents to police.
“Police officers, whether they are on or off-duty, carry their warrant cards and will be happy to produce them if requested.
“If you are unsure of the authenticity of anyone claiming to work for Lothian and Borders Police you should contact us immediately.”
