When you need a locksmith, you need a solution as quickly as possible. While calling the first locksmith company that shows up on an internet search may seem like a fast and easy solution, it may actually result in a bigger headache than you’re already dealing with, as the internet is full of scams.
Locksmith scams take advantage of you in your time of need by claiming to provide fast locksmithing services. However, they typically will charge you a higher cost for lower quality work and even potentially damage your property – and that’s if they show up at all. This is why it’s important to make sure you’re calling a reputable, trustworthy, local locksmithing company.
How do I spot a locksmith scam?
Locksmith scammers can disguise themselves as reputable locksmith company simply by having a website that shows up on the first page of your internet search. So how can you tell the difference between a reputable company and a scam? Here are some signs that you can look for to spot the scam.
Web Presence
It can be easy to fall for a pretty website, internet advertisement, or great testimonial. Some ways to tell if the website, advertisement, or testimonial could be a scam is to look for vague language (i.e. lists of city names and generic keywords to help them rank well in the search engines), poor grammar, lack of logo or branding, missing phone numbers, or no company address.
Cost
If the cost seems “too good to be true,” it usually is. Scammers will promise a low-cost locksmith rate to get you to book their service. Once they complete the job, they will charge you a significantly higher amount compared to the quote.
Professionalism of Technician
Reputable locksmiths will have a professional appearance and skillset. They should arrive in a company vehicle, uniform, and have a clear idea of what they’re doing. If the service technician arrives without a company logo on their vehicle or uniform, you can ask to see a business card. If they do not have business cards, it may be best to call another service. If you notice the employee fumbling around with their tools or not looking sure of the job they are performing, it may be a benefit to call someone else before your property is damaged.
I have been scammed by a locksmith, now what?
Even if you do your best to spot an imposter, it’s not an exact science and you still may end up in a less-than-ideal situation. All too often if you try and follow up on the sub-par services provided by an illegitimate locksmith, you will hit a dead-end quickly, as locksmith scams tend to change contact information frequently. If you’ve found yourself with more problems than you started with, the experts at Minneapolis Lock & Key can help resolve your lock and key problems to make sure you stay protected.
How do I know which is the correct “Minneapolis Lock & Key?“
While we don’t intend to disparage our reputable colleagues in the locksmithing industry, we mention this topic as there have been many scams out there using the “Minneapolis Lock & Key” name – or some variation of it. There is only one legitimate Minneapolis Lock & Key, and if you’re reading this, you should see our navy blue, lime green, and white logo with the door and padlock icons in the header and footer, find pages of helpful information about our services and expertise, and if you call 612-823-8148, you’ll reach our professional dispatch team. Any locksmith technician sent out to help you from Minneapolis Lock & Key will arrive in a professional company van. Not only will they arrive wearing a uniform and nametag, but they will act professionally and be able to help you through your locksmith needs.
Save yourself time, money, and stress and save our number (612-823-8148) in your phone. This way you’ll know that, when you need a trustworthy Twin Cities locksmith, you will be in good hands for solving any of your locksmith needs.
