Don't Get Scammed!!!

Every skilled has a certain amount of folks who try to deceive or take advantage of customers.

The Locksmithing trade is one of those trades that seem to be attracting many of these types of scammers, and boy do they leave a black eye on our trade.

With the internet at their fingertips and the use of a generalized website they offer fabulous services in your area.  A large number of calls to a locksmith whether auto or residential are for lockouts. These jokers will advertise or quote a really inexpensive cost to get your emergency issue resolved. When they arrive on the scene they make a big deal out of your situation and now your bill is much higher than the original cost. Many times the “locksmith” uses unconventional ways to get your lock open and will break your lock or do damage to your auto. A properly trained locksmith will get you open in a matter of minutes.

 

A fellow Connecticut  auto locksmith was in the shop today sharing stories of how his business is taking a hit, because these shady characters are preying on the out of town visitors who lose a key and lock themselves out of their car. The Mystic CT area is a big draw to tourist so  this Summer the scammers are on the rise.

We called a locksmith this week that was online and advertising services in our New London CT area. Once we asked where they were located, they hung up on us and didn’t answer when we called back.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid being scammed:

ü  Look for accreditation such as one from ALOA (http://www.aloa.org/index.html) or a license number.

ü  Then check their website, internet sites and directory listings for customer reviews.

ü  Mine is very informative http://www.aalockkey.com/

ü  When you phone them, ask where they or their technicians are based. End it here if you're not satisfied with the replies or if they give vague answers.

ü  Otherwise, still on the phone, ask what their preliminary estimate of the cost will be. Don't fall for an outrageously low price -- like $10 or $20. It's a sure sign of a scam.

ü  Tell the locksmith dispatcher you will want to see the technician's ID and certification.

ü  When the locksmith arrives, check out their vehicle. Make a note of the license number. Be very dubious if they roll up in an unmarked vehicle or if their behavior seems unprofessional in any way.

ü   Verify and repeat your request for a written estimate. If he declines after inspecting the job, don't let him do any work.

ü    If he says the lock will have to be drilled out, ask him to explain why, and consider finding an alternative.

ü  Don't hand over your credit card or cash until you are happy with the estimate. If they insist on cash, that's another potential scam signal.

ü  Always Always get a receipt!

ü  If you run into trouble and encounter threats and other unreasonable behavior, call the police.

Here are some links to check out.

http://lifehacker.com/know-the-warning-signs-of-a-locksmith-scamming-you-1589984896

http://www.bbb.org/blog/2011/08/locksmith-scam-180-for-five-minutes/

http://helpmehoward.pix11.com/2013/11/19/picking-your-pocket-on-the-trail-of-locksmith-scammers/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-siciliano/12-ways-to-avoid-locksmit_b_4532019.html