NBC’s TODAY ran a story this morning, following up on a widespread locksmithing scam Jeff Rossen of Rossen Reports uncovered in 2011. Unfortunately, Rossen discovered that scam artists are still frequently posing as locksmiths and putting you and your loved ones at risk. You can access the story here.
Legitimate locksmiths are trained and certified. We take pride in our work!
Our first concern is our customer, not making a quick buck. Broadway Lock and Key is proud of the integrity and quality we put into every job, and we work to keep our pricing competitive. The companies Rossen reported on charged anywhere between $170 and $415. Jerry Giamanco, the professional expert Rossen used in 2011, estimated the job should cost around $100. Broadway Lock and Key does a basic lockout for $70. Paying hundreds of dollars just doesn’t make sense.
The Inside Scoop
After seeing Rossen’s report, we called Tom Lynch, founder of the Society of Professional Locksmiths, who was featured as the expert for 2014 in Rossen’s exposé. Rossen reported that it took Lynch only 5 1/2 minutes to pick the lock, but Lynch told us he was actually faster than that. He picked the lock the day before in under two minutes and, when cameras were rolling, he was working with a set of tools the studio had provided which were poor quality. The Society of Professional Locksmiths released a video on how to avoid being swindled when hiring locksmiths. The “professionals” Rossen brought out had no excuse to drill through locks except to inflate the price and swindle customers out of their hard-earned cash.
The Warning Signs
According to the Society of Professional Locksmiths, con artists typically display certain warning signs. Be wary if you notice any of the following:
- Extremely low advertised prices. If it seems to good to be true, it probably is. Watch for the bait and switch.
- When you call, the person who answered can’t tell you the company name. Many impostor locksmiths have multiple fake company names directed to one phone number.
- They find it difficult to answer technical questions about locks or say that a technician needs to see the lock or car.
- They claim you have high security or commercial locks and attempt to upcharge for it.
- They arrive in unmarked vehicles and do not have an ID, badge, or uniform.
Be Prepared
“The best advice, guys: Do not wait until you need a locksmith in that emergency. Find the reputable company today. Store it in your phone so you have it when you need it.” -Jeff Rossen, TODAY
Make sure you have Broadway Lock and Key’s phone number in your phone so you’re never at risk! We are a local, small business with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau and a 5 star rating with Yelp. We will provide affordable, high-quality service to keep you and your loved ones secure. Reach us at 303-578-8539 for all of your locksmithing needs.