As scary as it may sound, locksmith scams are becoming a part of our daily lives. Locksmiths target home and car owners when they are at their most vulnerable and desperately in need of help, in an emergency and in need of immediate assistance.
Most of the time we feel that searching for a locksmith online is probably a smart move. However, we could become the victims of fake locksmiths or scammers who mimic the legitimate ones in online directories. The thing is, these fake locksmiths are posing as local locksmiths and they don’t even have any local workshop. Sometimes these so-called locksmiths are not even properly trained and are operated through out-of-state call centers.
A few cautious steps you take can help avoid a scam company or an untrained copycat.
1. “Local” is the keyword
Do your research ahead of time. Take your time and don’t rush your search.
If a locksmith business is registered with a local address, Google the address and find out if there is another business registered with the same address.
Even if you are in an emergency, you should always be on the lookout for services that answer the phone with any generic phrases, such as “Welcome to locksmith services.” If the caller is unwilling to provide you with a legal business name, you should find another locksmith.
Also see if companies are using an “800” number or a local number. The “800” number may indicate that the locksmith you are calling could be an overseas call center.
2. Verify identification and license
When the locksmith arrives at the destination it is important to ask for identification, including a locksmith license where applicable.
Out of all the states, only fifteen of them require a locksmith license, making it a criminal job or even advertising as a locksmith without valid credentials. Check if your state is one of the 15 Google states.
3. Beware of low prices
Always get a quote over the phone before allowing any technician to meet with you. Be skeptical of any locksmith that offers an incredibly low price. Those are the main red flags. Always ask about labor costs, emergency costs, and service fees.
Never allow anyone to start work on the home or vehicle without fully understanding the expenses that could be incurred.
4. It is better if there are no hidden charges
It is important to ask if there are any additional charges, especially in emergencies.
A scam company could also claim that the lock on your home or vehicle is out of date and needs to be replaced. They will charge you an arm and a leg to replace your existing lock with one that they will say is a high security lock, but that is rarely the case. You could end up paying them to replace your existing good lock with a cheap one for a higher price.
5. Request vehicle identification
Always keep an eye on your surroundings. In case someone arrives in an unmarked vehicle and claims that they are with a specific locksmith company, they will definitely not allow you to start work. Legitimate locksmith companies always send their technicians in a vehicle marked with company logos, phone numbers, and branded tools. This is a call to conscience.
6. Request a quote in writing
Always request a written estimate. This will cover you from hidden fees and additional labor charges. If a locksmith is hesitant to give you a signed, written estimate, do not allow them to start the job. This may mean that they are not reputable and just want to make some quick cash.
7. The on-site estimate must match the written estimate
Any reputable locksmith company will provide you with a detailed estimate during the phone conversation. This will include the cost of arrival, labor, and necessary parts. This estimate will be with the estimate on the site. Locksmiths looking to rip you off will change their budget upon arrival by adding additional hidden fees before work even begins. Be safe from these rogue service providers.
8. Say “No” to drilling and replacement
Any locksmith company that suggests that the lock needs to be drilled or replaced is a fraud. Experienced locksmith technicians can open almost any door. If they want to drill the lock, say a direct ‘No’. There is a high probability that they are scamming you and looking for more money. All genuine locksmith companies train their technicians to properly open any door.
9. Avoid cash transactions
All genuine locksmith companies give you the option of paying by cash, check, and / or credit. Any business that insists on cash transactions is only looking for quick money and there is a 99.99 percent chance that it is a scam. This is also an important question to ask yourself beforehand. Make sure you know how they accept payment BEFORE you start working.
10. Don’t leave locksmiths unattended while on the job.
I’m not suggesting that you don’t trust the person who has come to help you, but it is important to be aware of what they are doing. Your care can prevent you from being scammed in more ways than you can imagine.
If you believe a locksmith has overcharged or scammed you, you should immediately contact your state attorney general’s office. If you’re lucky, the AG office might be able to hire staff to mediate between clients and businesses, and you might get your money back. Be careful and stay safe.