How to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Finding a locksmith that can be trusted is important in enhancing the security of your property. Whether the goal is to repair damaged locks, have new locks installed at your home, upgrade a security system, install an alarm system, set up an intercom system, have a transponder key programmed for your car, or even to have a panic bar installed at a commercial property, you must find an experienced locksmith that you can count on. We are a mobile locksmith company that is proficient in performing various locksmith services, from rekeying locks and installing new locks to deadbolt changes and high security locks (visit website).  

We can’t emphasize enough the importance of finding a locksmith you can count on. Unfortunately, your search for any company could lead you to potential scams and it is important to be very careful. We are going to provide you with some tips on how to avoid locksmith scams, because we would hate to see anyone taken advantage of when they are merely looking to better protect their property. Hopefully, you will find the information we provide here to be helpful, and it will allow you to avoid locksmith scams when you are looking into contacting a new company.  

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Bogus Ads  

We will start with bogus advertisements. If you find yourself doing a search for locksmith services, you might notice that standard looking advertisements pop up on your phone or computer. There are fake companies that sometimes put up advertisements that appear to be legitimate for all intents and purposes, but they are not. We are talking about scammers who might post fake lead generation advertisements. These ads might show customer reviews, which are not real, or at least not written by real customers, and they might even go so far as to show a physical address. How can you know when an ad is created by a scammer? How can you know if it is real? If the ad is posted by a scammer, they might list an unusually low price for service. Clicking on their ad might give them money, which could have been their ultimate end goal.  

Overcharging on the Job 

Or they scammer might actually send someone to your property. This person who arrives to your property might claim to find problems that do not exist, and then they will try to charge a much higher number than you were quoted. If a customer is not knowledgeable about lock and security products, unfortunately, they might pay more than they needed to. Many people who end up getting scammed don’t even realize they were scammed. It does not necessarily mean they hired a person who is inexperienced, but it means they hired someone who is taking advantage of them.  

Now that you know of potential scam risks when looking for a locksmith, we want to point out what you can proactively do to avoid being the victim of a scam. 

What are some signs to look for?  

Ads that are too good to be true. 

Notice if an ad or price is just too good to be true. If you contacted a couple different locksmiths, and one is offering a price that is substantially less than the others, something might not be right. You might find that you are told you will pay an exceptionally low rate, but suddenly, when the locksmith shows up to do the job, the rate increases a ridiculous amount. You can avoid this by asking around for price quotes, or even asking someone you trust for a referral. Chances are, if your neighbor that you trust or friend had a good experience with a particular locksmith, you will, too. Even if cost isn’t the best deal you were quoted, you can’t put a price tag on finding someone you can trust.  

Vague Language  

Watch for a locksmith that tells you a price and then adds on verbiage such as “and up.” If they tell you the rate will be “$20 and up” that is too vague. Watch for a locksmith that answers the phone without providing you with a company name. The professionalism that one exhibits when answering your phone call can speak volumes. If you notice these red flags, it might be best to find someone else. 

Lengthy Response Time 

Notice if the locksmith is taking much longer than they promised to arrive to the job. It could be that they were never as close as they claimed to be. 

Unprofessional Attire or Attire that Lacks Any Company Information  

Did the locksmith show up to the job without any sort of identification? A random shirt without any sort of company logo or identification on it? If you hired an experienced locksmith, they should know to show up with some sort of ID so that you know they are legitimate. Perhaps the vehicle is unmarked. You are allowed to ask for some sort of evidence that they are from a legitimate and trusted company.  

Finally, notice if the locksmith will only accept cash. This might be a sign to watch out for. The problem with ultimately hiring a scammer is that you will likely never see your money again. If you call the company back to speak with the locksmith you used, you might be provided with an excuse such as, “that locksmith was fired.”  

If you notice these red flags, you might want to avoid doing business with the locksmith. There are many trustworthy and experienced locksmiths out there who are honest and accessible. It is important to make sure you are calling on someone you can count on for the work. 

We hope this information on how to avoid locksmith scams is helpful for you. You can contact the Better Business Bureau or even Federal Trade Commission to report scammers. We hope that you never become the victim of a scam! No one deserves to experience being swindled or taken advantage of in any way.  

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