Locksmith Scam Warning How Fake Locksmith Companies Trick Customers
Locksmith Scam Warning: How to Avoid Fake Locksmiths & Bait-and-Switch Pricing
Common tactics include:
Locksmith scams often use national call centers that promise a quick technician callback to lure victims with low, fake, "bait-and-switch" prices
The "local" business is actually a call center, sometimes located in a different state, using virtual local numbers.
The call back is typically from a out of state number and they don't speak real good English.
Advertising extremely low prices
No real business address
Unmarked vehicles
Refusing to quote a final price
Drilling locks unnecessarily
Charging $300–$1000 for simple lockouts
How Locksmith Scams Work
Many fake locksmith companies operate large call centers instead of real local locksmith shops. They advertise very low prices such as $19 or $29 service calls.
When the technician arrives, the price suddenly increases after they claim the job is “more complicated.” This tactic is known as a bait-and-switch scam.
Signs You May Be Dealing With a Fake Locksmith
• The company name changes when they answer the phone
• They refuse to provide a physical address
• Prices are vague or extremely low
• The technician arrives in an unmarked vehicle
• They immediately recommend drilling the lock
How to Avoid Locksmith Scams
Before hiring a locksmith, take a few minutes to verify the company.
Checklist:
Look for a real storefront address
Ask for a written estimate before work begins
Search reviews from multiple websites
Verify local licensing requirements
Avoid companies advertising extremely low prices
Typical Locksmith Pricing
Understanding normal locksmith prices can help you avoid scams.
Typical price ranges:
House lockout: $185 – $325
Car lockout: $125 – $225
Lock replacement: $100 – $300 Plus Service Call
Server call: $125 to $325 depends on time of day and distance.
If a company advertises $19 service calls, it is often a scam tactic.
Report Locksmith Scams
If you believe you were the victim of a locksmith scam, report it to consumer protection agencies and leave public reviews to warn other customers.
Report a Scam