How to avoid becoming a victim to a locksmith scam – Tips to protect yourself

door locks

Scams and scammers are an ungly reality in many fields, from banking to locksmith services.

The Internet has paved the way for an open market, where buyers and sellers can communicate directly, easily and quickly.

While this has revolutionised the retail and service industry, it has also led to an increase in the number of scammers. When it comes to locksmith services, you need a trustworthy professional Locksmith Perth at your service. What you don’t need is a scammer, posign as a locksmith and trying to get access to your home, car or other assets.

So, how can you safegurad yourself and not fall victim to a locksmith scam? Here are tips you can follow. 

Tips To Protect Yourself Against A Locksmith Scam 

  1. Be wary of unprofessional locksmiths 

A Professional locksmith service will have a company name, logo, vans/trucks with the company name and logo and even uniforms for the employees. If a locksmith turns up at your door in an unmarked van, or answers the phone with “locksmith service” instead of a company name when you call, that’s an instant red flag. Steer clear of them. – we asked Ross from RJ Locksmith Colchester who said “choosing the right locksmith doesn’t always consist of choosing the cheapest provider. A poor locksmith can cost you a lot of headaches & extra cash in the long run. So do your due diligence & choose a local, reputable provider. I recommend reviewing their reviews on Google My Business to see they are good at what they do

  • Get A Written Quote 

An experienced locksmith will be able to give you an accurate estimate. If the locksmith you contact offers vague answers, or refuses to give you an amount for the job, then that’s a sure sign that they are planning to rip you off. In such instances, the locksmith will either charge you a much higher amount than the standard rates, or they will give you a number over the phone and later add on hidden fees to hike up the final amount. So, your best course of action is to demand a written price quote, preferably in a company letterhead, from the locksmith. If they refuse to comply, move on and find another locksmtih. 

  • Lock Replacement

Sure, in some instances, the lock will need to be replaced. But if all you wanted was duplicate keys made and the locksmith states that the only way to resolve the issue is by drilling and replacing the locks, it’s time to find another locksmith. Replacing a lock will cost much more than simply have duplicate keys made, so this is a way for scammers to get more money out of you for an otherwise inexpensive job. 

When choosing a locksmith, whether for your home, business or even automotive locksmithsfor your cars, it is a good idea to do your research and only select experienced, reputable locksmiths.