Protect Yourself from Locksmith Scams
We want you to feel safe and confident when you need locksmith services. Unfortunately, as with many service industries, there are nationwide scams operating within the locksmith field. We've compiled these consumer cautions to help you recognize and avoid dishonest practices.
Cautions for the Smart Consumer
1. Beware of Misleading Pricing
The Bait-and-Switch Tactic: A common scam involves quoting a very low price (e.g., $19 or $29) over the phone for a simple service like a lockout. However, once the technician arrives, they claim the lock is complex, cannot be picked, or requires drilling and replacement. The final bill then skyrockets to $200 or more.
Our Recommendation: Always ask for a firm quote or a detailed pricing range before they dispatch a technician. Be wary of any price that seems too good to be true.
2. Question Unnecessary Drilling and Replacement
Scammer’s Claim: Some scammers will immediately insist that your lock cannot be opened (or "picked") and must be drilled out and replaced. This is often an unnecessary and expensive tactic designed to inflate the final cost.
Our Recommendation: A reputable, well-trained locksmith can successfully pick most common locks. If a technician immediately suggests drilling and replacement, stop the service and get a second opinion.
3. Verify the Business's Physical Presence
The Virtual Address: Many scam operations are entirely mobile and use fake addresses in their online advertising to appear local and established. When you search for the address, you might find an empty lot, a residential home, or an entirely different business (like a restaurant). They do this so you cannot track them down later if a problem arises.
Our Recommendation: If you choose a locksmith from an online ad, take a moment to Google the business address and use Street View to confirm they have a legitimate shop or storefront at that location.
4. Don't Rely Solely on Online Reviews
While reviews are helpful, scammers have ways to manipulate or "scrub" bad feedback. Trust your instincts if something feels off during the initial phone call.
The Mobile Exception: Not all mobile-only locksmiths are scammers! If a mobile locksmith is personally referred by a friend or colleague who had a good experience, that is a reliable referral.
Your Best Security Strategy
The most effective way to protect yourself is by having a trusted relationship with a proven local company.
We invite you to stop by our shop and check us out—we've been serving the community since 1990. Do yourself a favor and put our phone number in your contacts – 727-544-1824 – under "Locksmith." This simple step bypasses the scammers altogether in an emergency.
