It happens to everyone; you somehow leave your keys in the car and lock yourself out.  It can happen by forgetfulness or completely by accident, as happened to me.  Several years ago while in college, I was removing my clothes basket full of laundry to take in to the cleaners.  When I closed the trunk my keys fell out of my hand and fell inside as it shut.  I didn’t mean for it to happen, it just did.  It doesn’t matter how it happens that one gets locked out, its just important to note that it happens all the time.  Enough that it is a billion dollar business in the U.S. alone and this is what has unfortunately attracted lockout and locksmith scammers whom will take you for a very expensive ride if you let them.

What the scammers are working on is that when you lock your keys in your car you are in desperate situation and will not likely fall prey to their schemes netting them some quick cash.  You most likely need to get on your way and they can play games like charging you much higher than you were quoted over the phone or adding hidden and multiple fees and parts charges for parts that were never replaced and probably get away with it.  Some will overcharge by as much as $400 or more for what should have been a $50 or $60 service in most cases. 

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The worst part is that many of these scams are listed in your local yellow pages and have reputable looking listings.  Some even include false logos stating they are backed by the Better Business Bureau and various state licensing authorities to appear legit.  This makes it hard to tell a legitimate locksmith business from a complete scam.   They also even use internet directories, websites and similar to further dupe victims and even authorities that might investigate them.   The problem here is very serious and that this lockout and locksmith scam hits victims hard in their wallet.  It is on the rise and even rampant in many large cities from New York to Miami and Los Angeles.     

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So how does one protect them self from this scam?  Well, first off, don’t be naïve and check things out – if something smells fishy, it probably is.  Stick to large name local and national locksmiths as this will better insure you aren’t dealing with a scam.  Large name, national franchises will show up with a van or truck with the company name on it and contact information like a web address and phone number.  They will also be very professional, have company clothing and proper identification.  This will include proper licensing in states that require licensing like NC. 

If you must call a non franchised locksmith, be careful.  Listen to how they answer the phone.  Do they answer it with their company name or do they just say, “Hello?”  If they don’t use a company name it is probably a very good hint that you are dealing with a scammer.  Make sure you get a quote for the service before you okay for them to come out to your location.  Once they show up make sure they arrive in a company vehicle and look professional.  If they don’t you have the right to refuse service.   Also, do not sign a blank agreement or work order as they can later fill in any amount they want and you’re stuck.

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If you follow the above steps and stick with large name, franchised locksmiths you will avoid 99% of the lockout and smith scams out there.  Be careful and be sure to have your guard up as this locksmith scam is one of the hottest growing scams out there currently.