Don't get caught in a sticky situation! When you need a locksmith, be real careful. There are lots fake locksmiths out there who will attempt to steal you off. These con artists often show up in unmarked vehicles, and their may even have fake licenses. Always do your research before allowing anyone into your home or business.
- Check with the online reviews for reliable locksmiths.
- Ask to see the identification before allowing them to work.
- Obtain a detailed estimate before get started working.
Locked Out and Scammed: My Nightmare with a 24-Hour Locksmith
I was stranded outside my house in the middle of the evening. My keys were missing, and I desperately needed to get in. A quick google search for "24-hour locksmith" turned up a company with glowing reviews. Feeling hopeful, I contacted them and they were there in minutes.
Sadly, things went from bad to worse from there. The locksmith behaved suspicious, and when he was done, the bill was insane. I challenged the price, but he claimed it was standard. Now, I'm left feeling violated and my door is still compromised.
Was I Just Scammed by a Locksmith?
That's what you might be asking yourself after calling a locksmith/a lock tech/an emergency locksmith and getting hit with a crazy/huge/staggering bill. It's easy to feel blindsided/robbed/taken advantage of when you're in a tough/stressful/desperate situation, like being locked out here of your house/car/office. To start with, it's important to remember/know/understand that locksmiths are regulated/legally bound/required by law to give you an estimate/quote/price upfront. If they tried to/said they couldn't/refused to do that, you were almost certainly scammed.
Next time you need a locksmith, do your research/shop around/compare prices before you call anyone. Check online reviews/yelp/local forums and ask friends/family/neighbors for recommendations/suggestions/pointers.
- Make sure they give you a written price
- Ask about their fees
- Trust your gut feeling
Remember, you have rights/options/choices when it comes to locksmith services. Don't let yourself be cheated out of your money.
Busted: The Tricks Used by Shady Locksmiths
Don't fall a victim to these cons. Shady locksmiths use a whole slew of schemes to defraud unsuspecting people. They might claim to be legitimate, wearing uniforms and driving marked vehicles, but nevertheless let your down down. One common gimmick is bumping up the price once they've arrived at your residence. They might also try to scare you into paying immediately, preventing you from comparing other quotes.
- Keep a list of reputable locksmiths on hand.
- Call to several companies for prices before making a decision.
- Exercise care if a locksmith arrives unannounced or without an prearranged time.
Scam Alert : Don't Fall for This 24/7 Locksmith Ploy
Stay Vigilant about a new fraud targeting people who need locksmith help rapidly. Scammers are posing as legitimate 24/7 locksmith services, luring unsuspecting victims with promises of fast and affordable solutions. Once they arrive at your location, they will inflate the cost of their services, demanding outrageous fees for simple tasks. Before You Call check the locksmith's license carefully and get a written estimate before they begin any work. Report about this scam to help protect your neighbors.
My Wallet Got Picked by a Fake Locksmith - Avoid This Trap!
I was so/extremely/really unlucky last week. I got stuck outside/locked out/trapped my apartment because I/my keys/the lock broke. Luckily, there was a person/someone/an individual nearby who said they were a locksmith and could help. They seemed reliable/professional/knowledgeable, so I let them into my place. Big mistake! It turned out they were a fake, and they stole my wallet/everything in my bag/all of my cash.
Now, I'm pissed off/furious/devastated and trying to figure things out/recover from this/avoid becoming a victim again. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are some things to remember: don't trust just anyone/everyone/any stranger who claims to be a locksmith. Always call a reputable company/check for reviews/ask for identification before letting someone into your home.
- Do your research/Check online reviews/Ask for recommendations
- Look for a license/Verify their credentials/Make sure they're insured
- Get a quote in writing/Don't pay upfront/Be wary of pressure tactics
Stay safe/aware/alert and don't become the next victim!