Watch Out for Locksmith Scams

We’ve all been there—getting locked out of the house or car. It’s the last thing you want to have happen, but sometimes it’s just unavoidable and you have to call a locksmith to let you back in. Unfortunately, locksmith scams are becoming more and more prevalent across the country. If you do find yourself in this situation, here are a few tips to keep yourself from being scammed:

Check for a Listed Address

When you are looking for a locksmith online, be sure to pay attention to the address listed. Using Google Maps or another site, are you able to actually see a business or is there just empty space? Many scams utilize a central calling center that then dispatch mobile locksmiths to your location. They don’t have real business locations, so this is the first sign that something might be amiss.

Beware of Extremely Low Prices

We all want to save money where possible, but the old saying “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is” definitely applies here. Some locksmiths advertise $19.99 or even $9.99 for their services, but that is just the fee for them to arrive. In actuality, they will charge you much more to open your car or home. A real locksmith with give you a flat, all-inclusive fee.

Ask for Identification

When your locksmith arrives, ask for identification. They should usually arrive in a marked vehicle in a uniform. They should at least have an identification card or business card. Be sure these items match the company you called.

Demand a Receipt and Use a Safe Payment Method

When it comes time to pay, insist on getting an invoice that is itemized and a receipt confirming your payment. These documents will be essential if you need to dispute the charge later on. In addition, try to use a safe payment method like a credit card so you will be protected and able to dispute any charges.

What else can you do to protect yourself from locksmith scams?

The reason that locksmith scams often work is that the victims find themselves in an emergency scenario. If you called a “$9.99 low price” locksmith and they arrive after an hour and tell you that’s just the service fee and it will actually cost upwards of $100, are you really going to send them away? Chances are that you’ll just let them unlock your car or home and deal with the frustration later. That is why having a trusted locksmith on your phone is essential before you find yourself in the situation. Do yourself a favor and program 909-980-3448 into your phone right now. At RBM Lock & Key we offer professional locksmith services throughout the Inland Empire area of Southern California. Don’t wait until it’s too late, check us out today at RBM Lock & Key!