What is a locksmith scam?
A locksmith scam is an example of a “bait-and-switch" deceptive tactic where the consumer is initially offered a low price for an unlocking service. However, when the alleged locksmith arrives, they will claim that the project is “more complicated than anticipated” and increase the price. Scammers will often use high-pressure tactics and demand cash.
How to protect yourself
- Verify the individual, not the business: In Connecticut, each individual performing locksmith services must be registered with DCP. Consumers can search the name of the locksmith technician on eLicense.ct.gov to verify they hold an active registration.
- The first business name is not always trustworthy: Fraudulent businesses will pay for strong keywords that cause their business to appear at the top of the search results. This is intended to deceive consumers who are doing a quick search of nearby businesses.
- Shop local: Contact a locksmith with a local storefront or a reputable roadside assistance organization, such as AAA.
- Confirm the address: Search the physical address and choose the “street view” feature to verify if the address matches the business.
- Pay attention to the phone number: Is it a local number or is it an out-of-state area code? Phony locksmith businesses will have multiple phone numbers direct to one call center that are often out of state or out of the country, as part of a larger scheme. If the person over the phone cannot provide an exact address, hang up.
- Ask for full estimate upfront: When calling the business, ask for a full price upfront, including service and travel costs. Before the work begins, ask for a written quote.
- No proof, no business: Scammers will often appear in unmarked vehicles, no uniform, and are unable to provide any identification. If the locksmith uses high-pressure tactics or cannot provide a registration number, you have the right to refuse a service.
- Read the reviews closely: Locksmith scammers will pay for fake Google reviews to deceive consumers as a highly rated business. Instead, search the business name on independent websites such as the Better Business Bureau and Yelp.
Signs of a fake online reviews
- Check the timeline of reviews: If there are several reviews in a short timeframe, it could be a sign that the reviews are fraudulent.
- If the reviewer only has one review: Reviewer profiles will show if they have reviews for other businesses. If they only have one review for the locksmith business, it could be a sign of a fake review.
- Be wary of generic details: If a five-star review lacks details about the service or the technician that helped them, it may not be reliable.
- Search the name of the business followed by “scam:” Looking up the name of the business followed by “scam” or “complaint” may pull up realistic testimonies of the service.