9 Essential Tips to Guarding Against Deceptive Locksmith Companies

In the digital world, our ability to identify trustworthy and authentic sources is more important than ever. In recent years, there has been an increase in fraudulent locksmiths presenting themselves as credible professionals both online and in-person. This deceptive trend, preying on those in urgent need, can have major consequences on your security and finances.

As Southern Arizona’s largest locksmith and security company, Roadrunner Lock & Safe is well aware of the tricks and deceptive practices that cost you money and security. This article will help you distinguish the authentic locksmith companies from the fraudsters: 

Why Is There a Rise in Fake Locksmiths?

While there are many factors that lead to this increase in fake locksmiths, here are some of the main reasons:

• Online Presence: Fake locksmiths often establish a strong online presence through websites and social media profiles, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish them from authentic  locksmiths. They may also use fake reviews and testimonials to appear trustworthy. 

• Emergency Situations: Lock and key issues can arise at any moment, and require immediate attention from a trained professional. Scammers often exploit this urgency, knowing that people in distress are more likely to accept help without thoroughly checking their credentials.

• Lack of Regulation: Since the locksmith industry is not as regulated as other service industries, these fraudulent locksmiths may try to operate without proper licensing or training. 

• Low Entry Barriers: Becoming a locksmith does not always require extensive training or certification, which can attract both legitimate professionals and scammers looking for easy opportunities.

Tips to Keep Yourself Safe

To protect yourself from fake locksmiths, consider the following steps:

• Do Your Research: Research and identify reputable locksmiths in your area before you actually need one. Keep their contact information on hand in case of emergencies. It is also recommended to scan their customer reviews to see if they are written by real customers.

• Ask for Identification: When a locksmith arrives, ask for their identification, business card, and a company vehicle with proper branding. Legitimate locksmiths will have these items readily available.

• Check Their Credentials: In areas where locksmiths require licensing, ask to see their license. You can also check with local authorities or locksmith associations to verify their credentials.

• Request a Written Estimate: Before any work begins, request a written estimate that includes a breakdown of costs for labor, parts, and any additional fees. Be wary of locksmiths who provide a suspiciously low quote over the phone and then demand a significantly higher payment once the job is done.

• Check the Reviews: Look for reviews and testimonials on reputable platforms. However, be cautious of overly positive reviews that seem too generic or lacking in specific details. If it sounds robotic or like spam, there may be a reason for that.

• Payment Methods: Legitimate locksmiths usually accept a variety of payment methods to make the process simpler for customers. Be cautious if they insist on cash-only payments or demand payment upfront. 

• Ask Questions: Engage the locksmith in conversation about the services they are providing. Genuine professionals will be able to explain the process and answer your questions in a confident manner. 

• Ask for a Receipt: After the job is completed, always ask for a detailed receipt that lists all charges and the locksmith's contact information.

• Report Suspicious Behavior: If you suspect you have encountered an illegitimate locksmith, report them to local authorities and any relevant consumer protection agencies.

By staying vigilant, researching locksmiths beforehand, and following these precautionary steps, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to fake locksmith scams and ensure that you receive legitimate and reliable locksmith services when needed.

Roadrunner Lock, Safe & Security uses best-practice procedures to protect our customers across Tucson and southern Arizona, as well as our employees. Our technicians have succesfully passed background checks and received extensive training before going into the field. Additionally, your technicians will show up in a company uniform and with credentials that show their photo, name, position and company logo. Customers can also confirm the technician’s identity by viewing the website staff page.