How to Spot a Locksmith Scam

Did you know that locksmith scams are most likely to occur in emergency situations? That is because in your panicked state you are more likely to let something slightly-sketchy slide because you ‘really need to get to this meeting in half an hour’ or are less likely to look for red flags. It’s human nature, which is why locksmith scammers know they can target people who have locked themselves out.

Thankfully, there are some ways to protect yourself from a locksmith scam. Be on the lookout for these five signs that you are not dealing with a reliable automotive locksmith company:

1.  Getting Transferred Multiple Times on the Phone

When you call a local locksmith you should talk to someone in the main office who will then dispatch a local locksmith technician to your location. However, if you call a number and are transferred multiple times, it could be a sign that you’re dealing with a locksmith scammer who is not even local.

2. Locksmith with Unmarked Car and No ID or Credentials

When your locksmith pulls up, you should know they are there to unlock your car. That means they should be wearing a uniform with a nametag and arrive in a marked company vehicle. At the very least, they should be able to present you with identification. If they have no credentials or anything proving they work for a legitimate local company, you should send them away.

3.  Promise of a Low Rate

Locksmith scammers prey on people by promising low rates and then jacking up the price when they arrive. If someone quotes you anything less than $25, they are a scammer. Once they open your car they’ll inform you of the $100 “emergency service fee” or utilize other methods to extort more money than promised.

4.  Need to Drill the Lock

If you have a locksmith arrive and tell you that the lock needs to be drilled and replaced, they are not someone you want to hire. Any legitimate locksmith should be able to pick the lock or get into your vehicle or home without drilling and destroying a lock—that will of course, then need to be replaced.

5. Not Accepting Credit Cards  

A legitimate locksmith will be able to accept credit cards. They will either be able to utilize a device to take your information on site or allow you to call the office to submit payment via credit card. If someone is requiring cash for locksmith service, they are not a legitimate locksmith company.

Trust RBM Lock & Key With Your Automotive Locksmith Services in Ontario, CA.

Another way to prevent yourself from falling victim to a locksmith scam is by having a trusted locksmith programmed into your phone before you need them! RBM Lock & Key has been a trusted locksmith in Ontario, CA since 1973. We provide reliable and affordable locksmith services, so add 909-980-3448 into your phone right now!