Locksmith scams that prey on vulnerable people who are locked out of their homes and cars by overcharging them for emergency locksmith services are quickly becoming one of the most common types of fraud in locksmith Singapore.
Hundreds of scam artists are targeting homeowners and vehicle owners in Singapore who need locksmith services quickly. In fact, this type of scam is becoming so popular that many licensed, professional locksmiths believe that these con artists could be a part of a larger criminal organization.
Unqualified and unlicensed locksmith ‘contractors’ are charging their victims over 10 times the going rate for regular emergency services. Fortunately, these scams can be easy to prevent and stop once consumers use the following tips to stop these criminals in their tracks.
The Anatomy Of A Locksmith Scam
According to 247 DC locksmith, the premise of the scam is fairly simple. Let’s say you are locked out of your house or your car. Or, perhaps you need the locks on your property changed quickly for another reason such as preventing unauthorized people access.
You begin looking online for a local locksmith that is close to your location. You find one who provides you with one quote on the phone, but once they arrive at your location, they give you another quote. Sometimes, they will give you a higher quote while they are in the middle of the job. For example, some of these ‘locksmiths’ have been known to charge their customers $2000 for a job that only should be around $150.
So, to sum it up, they use the Internet to advertise very low prices. Then, they begin to disassemble the lock and increase the price to thousands of dollars. If a customer refuses to pay, they will resort to threats, bullying or even refusing to hand the customer’s credit card back to them.
It is also not uncommon for them to botch the job. As a result, you will have to pay even more money to have the lock properly changed.
With that said, there are some things you can do to avoid becoming victim to a locksmith scam.
Look For A Locksmith That Is Really Local
Even if they advertise that they are in your area, it is a good idea for you to do your due diligence to make sure that is true. When you call, ask them very detailed questions, and also take some time to read customers’ reviews.
If you are in need of emergency services, stay away from companies with a generic name such as ‘locksmith services’ instead of a professional company name. If a locksmith refuses to give you their company’s name, do not hire them.
Inquire About An Estimate
It is typical for call center locksmiths to give you an initial quote of up to $40 to begin the work. They will then give you the bait-and-switch. Once they arrive, the price gouging begins.
On the other hand, professional locksmiths usually do not give an initial quote of less than $60. Any price that is lower than that should bring up red flags.
Professional locksmiths have to pay for overhead as well as the necessary tools in order to do their jobs efficiently. Licensing costs, transportation, and continuing education are all taken into consideration when a genuine locksmith gives a quote.
Always get an estimate before hiring a locksmith, and never hire one that refuses to provide you with an estimate.
Check License And ID
Always ask the locksmith for identification and any necessary license and paperwork before work begins. It is your right as a consumer to ensure the person you hired is who they say they are.
A legitimate locksmith will also ask for your identification. This will also verify that you have the authority to have emergency locksmith services for the property in question.
If you think you have been scammed, contact the appropriate agency in your jurisdiction. Litigation may be necessary for you to get your money back.