You will know how scary it can be if you have ever been locked out of your home. Especially if it happens later in the evening. Many people find themselves without anywhere to go while waiting, this can make you feel worse and eager to hire someone immediately. But this is what locksmith scammers prey on. When someone is feeling vulnerable, this is exactly when a locksmith scam happens.
While you are searching for a locksmith to gain you access back into your home, you may not carry out your research properly. Therefore, you may end up inviting a scammer to your home without realizing it.
When you are looking to hire a locksmith to come out to your home quickly, you are less likely to research any company in-depth. For some tips on how to avoid getting duped by a locksmith scammer, keep reading to find out more.
Low Estimates Are Locksmith Scam Red Flags
When you call a professional locksmith near Oswego IL, make sure that any estimate that they are providing you with is not “too low”. Be wary of anyone who seems too good to be true, by offering their services for an exceptionally low price. Many locksmith scammers will quote you with a low price so that once they turn up to your property, they can give you a much higher quote.
Quotes Shouldn’t Change
Remember that professional locksmiths can gain entry and fix almost any lock. If they cannot open your lock, then this could be a red flag. The only reason why an estimate should rise is that the locksmith cannot complete the job without ordering in extra parts or fitting a new lock. This is exactly what locksmith scammers attempt to do to get more money from you, but this is not typically required.
Further to this, always ask questions. When calling, make sure you ask about all costs involved. When the locksmith turns up, ask those same questions again. If these quotes do not match, then you should consider hiring someone else. Also make sure the product you order is the same product installed. If you bought a keyless entry system but received something else, this is a red flag for concern.
Look Out for Company Name
Locksmith scammers and those wanted to commit a locksmith scam usually do not operate under a company name, instead they will refer to themselves as offering a “locksmith service”. So, make sure that you look out for clear company names and logos.
Cross-Reference
When you are researching into locksmith services, make sure that you cross-reference them. Try searching any number you find to see if it pops up for another locksmith company. As locksmith scammers often use several names to operate under, if you find that the number is used for two or more companies this may be a red flag.
Read Reviews
Make sure that you are reading reviews on any company before calling. If they have a lot of good ratings online, the chances are you will have a good experience.
Protect Yourself
In case you need to dispute it later, you should ask for an itemized invoice. This type of invoice will break down the cost of parts, mileage, labor, and service charges. You should also pay with a credit card if you have one because they protect any payments you make.
