Locksmith scams are becoming increasingly common as scammers take advantage of unsuspecting victims who need emergency locksmith services. These scams typically involve the locksmith charging exorbitant fees for their services or even damaging the property to extort more money from the victim. In this article, we will guide you on how to spot locksmith scams.
How to Spot a Locksmith Scam
If you’ve ever had to call a locksmith, you know that it can be a bit of a stressful experience. After all, you’re trusting someone with your home or business security. But what if you call a locksmith and they turn out to be a scammer?
Unfortunately, locksmith scams are all too common. Here are a few signs that you may be dealing with a scammer:
1. They Give You an Estimate Over the Phone
If a locksmith gives you an estimate over the phone, beware. A reputable locksmith will need to see the lock to give you an accurate estimate. If they give you a quote without seeing the lock, likely, they’re just trying to scam you.
2. They Ask for Payment Upfront
When a locksmith asks for payment upfront, it’s a red flag. You should only pay for services after they’ve been completed. If they ask for payment upfront, they could take your money and run without completing the job.
3. They Have No Identification or References
A reputable locksmith will have identification and references. If they don’t, they may not be legitimate. You should ask to see their identification and references before allowing them to work on your locks.
4. They Use Pressure Tactics
Some locksmiths will try to pressure you into using their services. They may tell you that your locks are in bad shape and need to be replaced immediately. They may try to scare you into using their services.
5. They Claim to be Associated with a Known Company
Many locksmith companies are known and trusted. Some locksmiths will try to claim that they are associated with a known company. This is often not true. If a locksmith tries to claim that they are associated with a known company, you should ask for proof.
6. They Have a Cheap Price
You should be wary of locksmiths who have a cheap price. Many of these locksmiths are not licensed or qualified to do the job. You should always get a free estimate before you hire a locksmith.
7. They Claim to be Licensed
You should always make sure that you are dealing with a licensed locksmith. Many of these locksmiths are not licensed or qualified to do the job.
8. They Claim to Have a License
To be a licensed locksmith, you must have a license. If a locksmith tries to claim that they are licensed, you should ask to see their license. If they can’t show you their license, they are not a licensed locksmith.
9. They Are Not Listed in the Yellow Pages
If a locksmith is not listed in the Yellow Pages, this is a sign that they are not licensed. You should always make sure that a locksmith is licensed in your state before you use their services.
10. They Are Unprofessional
If a locksmith is unprofessional, this is another red flag. A professional locksmith will be courteous and professional at all times. They will be respectful of your time and your property.
Conclusion
It’s important to be aware of the possibility of locksmith scams. These scams typically involve a locksmith charging exorbitant fees for simple services or damaging your property and then charging you for repairs. If you need a locksmith, be sure to do your research ahead of time and choose a reputable company. And if you’re ever unsure about a locksmith’s fees, don’t hesitate to ask for a written estimate.
If you need a reliable locksmith in Perth, you can hire one from us at South Perth Locksmiths. We offer 24-hour and emergency services. Get in touch with us to learn more about our services.
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