We have all heard of identity fraud, bank account fraud, and credit card fraud, but how about locksmith frauds?  Whether it is well known or not, this type of deception is sweeping the country.  Since locksmith services are frequently unplanned occurrences, it is important to know what to look for to protect yourself from getting cheated.

Locksmith fraud usually arises in the simple form of overcharging for services.  The “locksmiths” will give an expected rate to a customer over the phone, perform the service, and then demand much more money than originally projected.  Many of these swindlers are not even licensed locksmiths and their advertisements actually present fake information. The swindlers take advantage of customers’ vulnerable situation and lack of expertise.

Avoiding locksmith fraud starts with a few simple steps.  First of all, always demand a price upfront.  If this price changes for any reason throughout the service call, refuse to pay.  It is unlikely that these extra charges are legitimate, so stick to what you were originally given.  Additionally, always stay smart and alert during a service call.  If the locksmith arrives in an unmarked vehicle, do not be afraid to inquire about his validity.  Posing as a certified member of this type of profession is becoming all too common, so be cautious of con artists.  Above all, do not pay for anything before the service is complete.

It is especially important to be vigilant in matters of home security.  Choosing a locksmith for updates in residential security should not be a rushed process.  Reviews, referrals, and licenses are all meaningful things to look through before making a decision.  This is always something to keep in mind before giving someone access to your home.

If you do fall victim to a case of locksmith fraud, do not hesitate to report it.  Contact local officials, state government, or the Better Business Bureau to find and ultimately expel these faulty services from the market. Next time, use TalkLocal to find a reputable locksmith. TalkLocal uses social reputation, online reviews and rankings, and call analytics to ensure that you are matched with high quality locksmith in your area.

This entry was originally posted on Wednesday, July 4th, 2012 at 6:00 am and is filed under Locksmiths. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.