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