Don't get caught in a sticky situation! If you need a locksmith, be real careful. There are plenty fake locksmiths out there who will try to rip you off. These crooks often show up in unmarked vans, and these may even have fake licenses. Always do your research before letting anyone into your home or business.
- Check with the local Chamber of Commerce for trustworthy locksmiths.
- Request to see their license before permitting them to work.
- Obtain a written estimate before they working.
Stuck Outside and Robbed: My Terrible Time with a 24-Hour Locksmith
I was trapped outside my condo in the middle of the early morning. My keys were gone, and I desperately needed to get inside. A quick search for "24-hour locksmith" turned up a business with great reviews. Feeling optimistic, I called them and they were at my door.
Unfortunately, things went from bad to worse from there. The locksmith behaved suspicious, and when he was done, the bill was ridiculous. I challenged the price, but he said it was justified. Now, I'm left feeling taken advantage of and my entryway is still unsafe.
Did I Just Get Ripped Off 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 of your house/car/office. First off, 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 probably ripped off.
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
- Find out how much they charge for labor and materials
- Trust your gut feeling
Remember, you have rights/options/choices when it comes to locksmith services. Don't let yourself get taken for a ride.
Exposed
Don't fall a victim to these devious individuals. Shady locksmiths use a whole slew of tricks to cheat unsuspecting people. They might pose to be legitimate, wearing uniforms and driving marked vehicles, but nevertheless let your down down. One common strategy is inflating the price once they've arrived at your door. They might also try to pressure you into paying up front, hindering you from researching other quotes.
- Maintain 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 schedule.
Scam Alert : Don't Fall for This 24/7 Locksmith Ploy
Keep Your Guard Up about a new scam targeting people who need locksmith help rapidly. Con Artists are posing as legitimate 24/7 locksmith services, luring unsuspecting victims with promises of fast and affordable services. 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 start any work. Share 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 here safe/aware/alert and don't become the next victim!