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Writer's pictureKey Man

$15 Locksmith? Think again.


While searching for a locksmith online, you have undoubtedly stumbled upon ads stating car or house openings for $15. In cases such as these, it is important to remember the old adage "If it seems too good to be true, it is." Glenn, the owner of Key Man Lock & Safe Company at 128 20th St. Suite A in Ogden, UT explains how these companies actually do business.

"In all actuality, these are not companies at all, much less reputable companies. These ads are set up and placed by crime syndicates which have been traced to Israel. These criminals have starred in countless news stories nationwide of which I will provide links for below. The criminal organizations begin by setting up call centers with toll free telephone numbers. They then set up very simple one page website in an attempt to legitimize their activities. When visiting these websites, you will notice there is only one set price and that is $15 for a service call. All other items listed state open ended prices. For example, Car Opening $35 and up, House Opening $25 and up. The "and up" is where they attack you. When a customer attempts to get a set price, the operator always states "The technician has to see the car." A true locksmith is familiar with all cars and locks and will give you a price over the phone."

Recently a Rhode Island resident contacted a "$15 locksmith" to have her house opened. She believed she would be paying only $15. Once the job was complete, she was handed a bill for $434. This amount included $130 for a $7 lock purchased at Home Depot. The criminal did not attempt to pick the lock, he instead immediately drilled the lock telling the customer it was high security and could not be picked.

When searching for a locksmith online, it is important to choose a local locksmith which a physical storefront location. You must also read reviews on the locksmith in order to determine whether or not they are reliable, honest, and friendly.

Glenn is the owner of Key Man Lock & Safe at 128 20th St. Suite A in Ogden, UT 84401. He holds degrees in Criminal Justice and Intelligence Studies as well as an MBA. He can be reached at (801) 675-5277 or by email at info@keymanlockandsafe.com

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/31/business/fake-online-locksmiths-may-be-out-to-pick-your-pocket-too.html?_r=0

http://www.nbcnews.com/id/19714358/ns/business-consumer_news/t/locked-out-dont-fall-locksmith-scam/#.WBy6Pce7qUk

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