How to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Anyone that has been in a lockout situation or some other lock emergency knows exactly how frustrating and worrying the situation can be. The only thing on your mind at that point in time is to get a locksmith to come and address the problem without delay. And the fact is that it really isn’t difficult to find a locksmith in most areas. But what’s important is that the locksmith you hire be credible and experienced.

Calling the first company you find on the internet can prove to be a folly. Today, there are a number of unscrupulous operators that pose as experienced locksmiths and scam gullible customers that are in a bind. These scammers follow a very similar modus operandi.

The Tricks Scammers Use

They act like they have the expertise to handle the job; they scrutinise the lock and check it before providing a quote. Most often, the quote is very low and this attracts customers that are looking for a quick and cost-effective solution. Once the customer agrees to the cost, the ‘locksmith’ starts working on the lock and seems intent on opening it or fixing the problem. But they soon act like they are exasperated and say that regardless of how much they try, they just wouldn’t be able to fix it.

They might say that the damage is too serious or that the lock mechanism is too complex and that the only solution is to replace the entire lock. Complete replacement of locks can cost a pretty penny. But in a desperate state, most people are left with no choice but to agree to the repairs. These scammers are very smooth operators; very few people can see through the scam and end up burning a hole in their pocket. Being aware that these types of scammers exist and how they operate can help you avoid the scams.

No Physical Address

Most companies that run scams such as these won’t have a physical address listed on their website and they won’t have any local contact number either. This should immediately make you wary of the company and stay away from it. Some of these companies have 800 numbers as their customer support numbers. If there is a very long hold when you call the number or find the ringtone to be very odd, the call may have reached an overseas destination and the company may be a scam.

No Identification

Every locksmith in Australia is required to have appropriate licensing and insurance. These details and their ABN number should be clearly mentioned on their website. If it isn’t, avoid hiring the locksmith as they could be running a scam. If you have already called for a locksmith, ask them to provide an ID before they start on any work. A credible company should be able to provide these details and the vehicle they arrive in needs to have their company markings too. If they are unable or unwilling to show IDs, simply avoid hiring them and call someone else to handle the job. While this may seem tedious and time- consuming, you won’t end up being scammed.

Keeping these pointers in view will help you avoid locksmith scams. For information about our reliable and certified services, call Sutherland Locksmiths today or contact us via this Online Form.