Although the internet has become an indispensable part of our everyday life, it’s lent itself to unfavorable scams relaying deception in the form of a service. One profession that has recently seen its share of fraudulent imposters spike online in recent years is locksmiths. Shady companies pose as local locksmiths online, offering unbelievably low prices for lockout services. After the services have been rendered, they bill their clients for substantially higher fees. In a landscape with dishonest, deceptive companies, it’s crucial to know how to tell the difference between authentic professionals and cons. Here are a few tips on how to avoid fake locksmiths online. 

How to Avoid Locksmith Scammers Online

Don’t Trust 800 Numbers

According to experts in the locksmith industry, many of the fake locksmith companies will have toll-free 800 numbers. Real local locksmiths, on the other hand, normally have local area codes. It's perhaps the easiest way to distinguish real professionals from shady imposters. 

Don't Fall for Outrageous Prices

If you see a locksmith "company" advertising rates below the typical market value, you're probably better off steering clear. Those low prices are the first stage of a bait-and-switch scheme that will result in much higher fees later on. 

Consult the Better Business Bureau®

The Better Business Bureau exists to help American consumers tell whether or not a business is legitimate. The BBB is an ideal resource for rooting out fraudulent locksmiths. If they're not recognized by the BBB, or have a low rating from the bureau, it's a red flag that they're not an honest establishment. 

Don’t Let Them Drill the Lock

One of the most popular tricks among scam locksmith companies is telling customers that they can’t pick the lock for your home or car, and will have to use a drill to completely remove the lock from the door (for a much higher fee). Don’t fall for this. Reputable locksmiths can open just about any lock without requiring a drill. 

 

For more than 25 years, Columbia Lock and Safe has been providing residents and businesses of Boone County, MO with top-notch locksmith services, including lock repair, lockout, and key replacement. Visit the longstanding locksmith's website to learn more about how they can assist local businesses, or call directly at (573) 443-5397.