Locksmith Scam Warning: How to Avoid Being Overcharged

The Locksmith Scam

• ⚠️ A common scam targets individuals locked out of their homes or cars, leading to significantly inflated charges.
• 💡 A homeowner reported being quoted $100 for a locksmith service but was ultimately charged $450 after a new lock was installed.

How Scammers Operate

• 🎯 Scammers often pose as locksmiths but lack formal training; they are frequently dispatched by national call centers.
• 💰 They lure customers with a low initial service call fee, then add substantial hidden charges once on-site, often doubling or tripling the original estimate.

Protecting Yourself from Scams

• 🔍 When searching for a locksmith, avoid picking the first result that appears online.
• ⭐ Instead, check reviews on independent platforms like Yelp or Google, not just testimonials on company websites.
• 🆔 Always verify the locksmith's identification, including a company name on their vehicle, and demand a detailed invoice.
• 🏢 Look for companies with a physical local storefront as an indicator of legitimacy.
• 🗣️ Don't hesitate to ask questions and, if suspicious, tell the locksmith to leave before any work is done.