Beware of Locksmith Scams: What You Need to Know Before You Call for Help

When you're locked out of your home, office, or car, you just want to get back in—fast. Unfortunately, that urgency is exactly what locksmith scammers are counting on.

In fact, locksmith scams have become so widespread that in 2023, Google filed a lawsuit against fraudulent service providers who used its advertising platform to deceive consumers. These scammers set up fake businesses online, flood search results with misleading listings, and often leave customers paying hundreds more than expected for subpar, sometimes even dangerous work.

As a trusted local locksmith, we want to make sure you don’t fall victim to one of these common (and costly) traps.

🧯 What’s the Scam?

Here’s how these operations usually work:

1. Fake Listings

   Scammers create dozens—or hundreds—of fake business listings in online directories (like Google Maps or Yelp). These look like local businesses, often using names similar to real locksmiths.

2. Bait-and-Switch Pricing

   They advertise unrealistically low rates—like "$19 service calls." But once the technician arrives, they’ll claim your lock is “complex,” then hike the price to $200, $300, or more.

3. Untrained Technicians

   The person who shows up may not be a licensed locksmith at all. Worse, they may damage your lock or even leave you more vulnerable to break-ins later.

4. No Accountability

   These fake businesses usually have no real information on their receipts. If you try to complain, they’ve vanished.

   
   
   
   

   

   
   
   
   

⚖️ Google Fights Back

In late 2023, Google filed a civil lawsuit in California targeting fraudulent locksmith and garage door repair companies abusing its advertising platform. The lawsuit claims these scammers used fake websites and deceptive tactics to trick consumers and displace real, verified local businesses.

Google stated that the lawsuit is part of a broader effort to protect consumers from predatory practices and to maintain trust in Google Search and Google Maps.

“This lawsuit sends a clear message: we will not tolerate abuse of our platforms,” said David Graff, Google’s VP of Trust & Safety.

This move is promising—but it's also a reminder to stay vigilant. Read the full CBS news story here.

🛡 How to Spot a Locksmith Scam

Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• Prices too good to be true (“$15 service call!” is always a bait)

• High number of five star reviews

• Not local area code

• No company name on the vehicle or uniform

• Pressure to drill the lock immediately (often unnecessary and expensive)

• Sponsored ad at the top of Google search results, but no Google Maps listing

• Phone call is answered by a national call center that says they will have their locksmith call you back

  • The "locksmith" is very pushy and calls multiple times

    
    

    

    
    
    
    

    

    
    
    
    

✅ How to Protect Yourself

• Look for verified local listings on Google with reviews and photos.

• Ask for a written estimate before any work begins.

• Check for proper licensing and insurance.

• Use a locksmith with a physical presence in your area.

• Save the number of a trusted locksmith before you need one.

• Trust your gut - refuse service if you get a sense they're not a professional

  
  

🔑 Honest, Local, and Ready to Help

At Locksmith Solutions, we’re local, insured, and proud to serve our local community with transparent pricing and professional service. We’ve fixed countless botched jobs from scam operators—and we’d much rather help you the right way, the first time.

📞 Save our number now, before you need us!

Need us right now? 585-639-7001 Want a quote? Email contact@locksmithsolutions.net