Locksmith scams follow a predictable pattern: a rock-bottom quote gets you to call, then the price jumps dramatically once someone shows up. Knowing the pattern ahead of time is the best protection.
Warning Signs
- Vague pricing over the phone. A legitimate locksmith can give you a realistic price range before arriving. If they refuse to give any estimate, be cautious.
- Unmarked vehicles or no uniform. Professional locksmiths typically arrive in a marked vehicle and identifiable uniform.
- Reaching for a drill immediately. A qualified locksmith can pick most locks. Drilling should be a last resort, not the first move, and should be explained to you first.
- Refusing to provide ID or licensing. You should be able to ask for identification or a license number without pushback.
- The price changes dramatically on arrival. Some scammers quote a low price to get you to agree, then claim the job is "more complicated" once they're on-site and demand far more.
- Cash-only, no invoice. A legitimate business will give you an itemized invoice for the work performed.
How to Protect Yourself
- Search for the business by name (not just the phone number in an ad) and check reviews before you call, when you have time to do so.
- Ask for the total price to be confirmed again once the technician arrives, before any work starts.
- Get the technician's name and the company name up front.
- If the price jumps significantly with no clear explanation, you're allowed to decline and call someone else.
AlphaKey Locksmith confirms your exact price before any work begins, every time — no surprise charges once we arrive. See our pricing guide for realistic ranges so you know what to expect before you call.