It’s a shame that trusting people has to be earned, instead of assumed these days. It use to be that you would trust everyone until they’re actions label them untrustworthy, but that is no longer the case. We are generally wary of most people, and there are even some scammers and con artists claiming to be locksmiths. These unscrupulous fellows are generally untrained to correctly take care of a normally simple task by a licensed locksmith, and then charge a ridiculous fee. In an emergency situation, these scam artists take advantage of the stressed and anxious consumers desperate for help.
Texan Lock and Key would like to share the red flags to stop you from falling into the trap of a locksmith scam.
1. An experienced and licensed locksmith is able to give you an accurate estimate for the service you are in need of before the work begins. Before you accept their services, ask about all fees included in the estimated service. For example; any emergency fees, mileage, or service call charges.
2. When the mobile locksmith does arrive, ask to see their ID and a license, which are mandatory in several states, including Texas. If they decline, or have excuses, perhaps it may be better suited to decline their services. Most authentic businesses have obviously marked vehicles with their company name and logo plastered on their vehicles. However, due to the rise of burglaries on their company vehicles, some locksmiths have been driving unmarked vehicles, but generally still carry proper ID and licenses to prove their identity.
3. Be wary of any locksmiths claiming to have to drill or replace locks. Experienced and properly trained locksmiths have the tools and know how to properly pick most locks.
4. Pay attention to how the locksmith arrives and parks their vehicle. It has been reported than the phony locksmiths will try to intimidate and bully into fraudulent services and demand extreme payments and block the escape route, especially on women. If this happens, and your spidey senses are tingling, find a public place, and if necessary contact the police.
