LELAND IMM

Skepticism The Key To Avoiding Locksmith Scam

Advertisement
July 12, 2007

• Read More Scam Alerts ...

Perhaps playing on consumers' security fears, a handful of operators, posing as locksmith companies, are ripping off consumers coast to coast.

The companies, all employing similar tactics, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics, and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints, according to the Better Business Bureau.

“Ironically, these companies operate under names like ‘Dependable Locksmith’ but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car,” said Steve Cox spokesperson for the BBB System. “We’ve found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers’ misfortune part of their business model.”

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the U.S. increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has singled out Dependable Locksmith – which operates under more than a dozen different names – for harsh criticism, calling it “particularly disreputable.”

The group says the company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. A consumer might think they’re dealing with a local locksmith but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives – typically in an unmarked vehicle – he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint from Cleveland, OH, where Dependable Locksmith was operating under the name “Superb Solutions,” alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471, which included add-on fees such as a $65 breaking in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash. Feeling unsafe the victim refused.

The victim said she was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith, claiming he would not let her into her car until she did so. She cancelled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB also reports complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn’t simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith’s aliases include, Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith, and S.O.S. Locksmith, according to the BBB.

Locked out? Don't fall for locksmith scam
MSNBC contributor
11:32 AM EST July 13, 2007

Most locksmiths are honest. A few are not. According to a new warning from the Better Business Bureau, these untrustworthy locksmiths are "ripping off consumers" across the country. The BBB says this "nationwide locksmith swindle" has already resulted in more than a thousand complaints.

"We know that there are thousands more people across the country who have been victims and don't even know it," says Alison Preszler with the Council of Better Business Bureaus.

The BBB blames most of the problem on two companies: Dependable Locksmith (New York) and Basad Inc. (Englewood, Colo.). These two firms also operate in other major cities across the country using dozens of generic aliases, such as AAA Locksmith, A-1 Locksmith and 24 Hour Locksmith – names that are also widely used by reputable companies.

The BBB says unhappy customers complain that Dependable and Basad significantly overcharge, charge for unnecessary services, and use intimidation tactics. In some cases, the final bill is four times as much as the quoted price.

"They have made taking advantage of people who are locked out of their house or car part of their business model," Preszler says.

In Oak Creek, Wis., Carol Pintar was locked out her car on a cold night in December. She looked in the Yellow Pages and found a locksmith in nearby South Milwaukee. They told her the price would be $35.

The locksmith arrived in an unmarked vehicle, rather than a commercial van. That's usually the case with these dishonest operations. Pintar said he demanded payment upfront – another warning sign. But the price wasn't $35 as quoted. It was $95.

"I did give him the money, but I really felt funny about the whole situation," she says. "I just knew it was some kind of scam, so I called the Better Business Bureau."

The BBB's Alison Preszler told me, "Many victims have come to us and said they knew they were being taken advantage of, but felt helpless to argue."

Show me the money.

Noelle, who lives in Cleveland, Ohio felt that way. She asked me not to use her last name because she has already been harassed by the company. Last August, after returning to a friend's house from a rock concert, Noelle realized she had locked her keys in the car. It was 2 a.m.

Noelle looked in the phone book and found "24-Hour Locksmith." She called and was told the charge would be $40. When the locksmith arrived – in an unmarked vehicle – he told Noelle he'd have to break the door to get it open. "He said he'd have to use a crow bar or break the window," she told me.

But there was a better option. For another $60, he could use a Slim Jim and pop the door open with no damage. Noelle agreed to the new fee of $100.

Once the door was open, Noelle was told the bill was $250.

"And I was like, excuse me! How do I owe you $250?"

The guy told her there were fees and service charges. And because she was going to pay by check, there was a check-processing fee. He volunteered to drive her to an ATM to get cash, but Noelle didn't like that idea.

"He would not give me my keys back until I gave him a check for $250. I was very upset because I realized I was being taken advantage of," she told me. But she needed to get into her car, so she paid.

A few days later, Noelle decided to visit the company, to complain in person. She found several locations listed in the phone book, but they all were bogus addresses.

A common trick.

Each of these companies uses a slick trick to appear as if they're a local locksmith. They place ads in phone directories and on the Internet using fake local addresses and phone numbers that ring at a call center in another part of the country. For instance, dial one of the Dependable Lock companies and your call will be routed to New York.

"Consumers think they're calling a reputable locksmith and they're quoted a price that seems very reasonable," says Claire Rosenzweig, President and CEO of the BBB of Metropolitan New York. "Then these people show up and charge more than you expected."

For the record: I called both companies and could not find anyone who would talk to me about the BBB's allegations. The attorney for Dependable Locks returned my call, but would only talk off the record. His only on-the-record comment? No comment.

The bottom line.

The Better Business Bureau suggests finding a good locksmith before you need one. That's a good idea, but most people don't do that.

So, how do you protect yourself? Be careful. Don't pick a company at random based on an ad in the phone book. If you're stuck in a situation where you need help right away, try to find a familiar name.

If you can get to a computer, you can check the company online 24/7 on the BBB's Web site. If not, call a friend and see if they know of a good local company.

If you're a member of AAA, you might want to use their locksmith service.

Be suspicious of anyone who shows up in an unmarked vehicle. Never pay before the work is done. Whenever possible, use a credit card. It has built in fraud protection. Finally, if you're not comfortable with the person who shows up, don't use them.

If you do get burned, let someone know about it. File complaints with the Better Business Bureau and your state's consumer protection or Attorney General's office.

Problem Solvers Locksmith scam makes a bad day even worse:

YouNewsTV™Story Published: Jul 19, 2007 at 11:10 PM PDT

Story Updated: Jul 20, 2007 at 8:04 PM PDT
By Herb Weisbaum
Listen
Watch the story SEATTLE - Most locksmiths are honest. A few are not. And if you happen to call one of these disreputable companies your bad day will quickly get worse.

When you lock your keys in the car, or lock yourself out of your house, you'd never call a locksmith in New York. At least, you wouldn't do so intentionally. But that's exactly what will happen if you call some of the companies we found working in the Seattle area.

They're all part of Dependable Lock, based in the Bronx. But you'd never know that, because they pretend to be from here.

The Better Business Bureau says the company is part of a "nationwide locksmith swindle" that's ripping off consumers across the country.

"These guys operate everywhere," said Alison Preszler, spokeswoman with the Council of Better Business Bureaus. "And they've made their business model out of taking advantage of people who are locked out of their house and their car."

Flip through the Seattle Yellow Pages and you may stumble across two full-page ads for Always Ready Locksmith and Quick Locksmith.

Both promise low prices and fast service. The ads don't list an address, but with all the 206 and 425 area codes in their ads, it's reasonable to assume they're both local companies.

They're not. Both are part of Dependable Lock.

Dial any of those numbers and your call is answered at a dispatch center in New York.

"You're quoted a reasonable price," says Preszler, "but when the locksmith arrives, he actually charges two, three, even four times more than what you were quoted."

Put to the test.

We wanted to see for ourselves, so we drove to the Northgate park-and-ride lot and had Stephanie, a KOMO intern, deliberately lock her keys in our car, a 2000, four-door Acura sedan. It did not have any special security system.

She called Always Ready Locksmith using the North Seattle number listed in the phone book. Stephanie was quoted "$39 plus $15 and up" to open the car.

So the job would be at least $54, but the dispatcher could not be any more specific than that. Stephanie was told to expect someone within 20 to 30 minutes.

The wait was a lot longer. It took an hour for the locksmith - a man in an unmarked car and not wearing a uniform - to arrive.

The first thing he did was tell Stephanie the charge was going to be a lot more than $54. He wanted $114, more money than we were willing to pay.

Stephanie told the locksmith she only had $95 on her, so he offered to drive her to an ATM so she could get more cash.

When Stephanie told him she didn't have an ATM card, the locksmith hesitantly took the $95.

With our hidden cameras rolling, we watched as the so-called locksmith fumbled around trying to get into the car. He didn't appear to have the proper tools, and didn't seem to know what he was doing.

He said his name was Sean, and from start to finish it took him six minutes to get the door open.

After he finished opening the door we got out of our van, which was hidden nearby, and approached the locksmith.

Asked why he charged so much for a simple job Sean replied, "Because it's automatic locks. This is how much it costs."

He said he thought $95 was a fair price. "We give like 20 to 25 minute response, so it's very fair."

I reminded him that it took more than an hour for him to arrive, and he didn't have much to say.

Stephanie said she'd have been outraged if she was a normal customer and was told she needed to pay $114 when she was expecting $54.

Little recourse.

Sean said if I wanted more information I could contact the Dependable Locksmith offices in the Bronx.

Sean gave us a receipt for only $39, not the $95 we paid him. That would make it a lot harder to file a complaint.

"These companies have been impossible when it comes to getting refunds, when it comes to answering complaints," Preszler said. "They are absolutely non-responsive."

We got quotes from several reputable Seattle-area companies that offer mobile locksmith service and their price quotes ranged from $50 to $75 to open the locks on the car we used in our test during normal business hours. That's half of what Sean told Stephanie he wanted.

And Sean didn't do a very efficient job. We took the car to the AAA shop in downtown Seattle and one of their service techs was able to open the locked door in just 35 seconds.

Clearly, the locks on our car were no reason for the added service charge Sean said was necessary.

And it isn't easy for a reporter to get them to respond to the allegations of deceptive business practices.

How does Dependable Locks respond to these allegations? The company's attorney did respond to my call, but he would only talk off the record. That's a "no comment."

So our colleagues at WABC-TV in New York went to the Bronx and tried to talk to Dependable Lock. Their reporter had a door slammed in her face.

The Council of Better Business Bureaus says it has received complaints from consumers across the country who say they've been ripped off by Dependable Lock.

So how do you protect yourself? If you're a AAA member, call them. If you're not a member, the agency will refer you to a reputable tow company that can get you in.

Other options include calling your local police department or a friend for a referral. Just don't pick a name at random out of the phone book. You never know who might show up.

Tips for choosing a locksmith.

What's in a name? Unscrupulous individuals often operate under many business names or aliases. They may answer the phone with a generic phrase like, "locksmith service" or simply "locksmith". If the call is answered this way, ask, "What is the legal name of your business."

Unclear advertising: Look closely at the ad(s) in the yellow pages. Is the specific name of the business clearly identified? Does the ad look similar to other ads but have a different name? Does it appear that the dealer actually operates under several names?

Unmarked car: Some legitimate locksmiths will work out of a car or unmarked van for quick jobs, but most should arrive in a service vehicle that is clearly marked with the name of the business.

Ask for identification: A legitimate locksmith should ask for identification and some form of proof that you have the authority to allow the unlocking to be done. A legitimate locksmith should also provide you with identification in the form of a business card or invoice with the company name on it. Identifying information should also match the name on the service vehicle.

Get an estimate: Find out what the work will cost before you authorize it. Never sign a blank form authorizing work.

Demand an invoice: Insist on an itemized invoice. You can't dispute a charge without proof of how much you paid and what you paid for.

Just say no: If you are not comfortable with the service provider, you can, and should, refuse to work with the locksmith.

Source: The Council of Better Business Bureaus

The Locksmith 'Mafia': Making an Estimate You Can't Refuse. Share July 18, 2007 8:51 AM.

Mike Mitchell Reports:

A New York City-based locksmith business has been squeezing out competitors and fleecing customers across the country, drawing nationwide outrage from consumers and professionals alike, according to the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB).

The CBBB, a non-profit organization that provides information on businesses to the public, told the Blotter on ABCNews.com that Dependable Locksmith is the most notorious of a number of "bully" locksmith companies known by some as "the locksmith mafia."

A CBBB reliability report about Dependable Locksmith asserts the company advertises in cities across the U.S., using addresses that appear local but are often non-existent. According to the CBBB, dispatchers in these areas pose as independently-run neighborhood locksmiths, and their late arrivals, unmarked vans, excessive fees and insistence on cash-only payments mark the modus operandi of the organization.

Locksmiths as far as Denver "are literally afraid" to speak out against these companies because of their tactics, said Susan Liehe, spokesperson for the Denver BBB.

Liehe added, "These sole-proprietor locksmiths are introverted, insanely ethical people who regard this whole operation with apprehension, resentment and fear. When I spoke with them, they couldn't get off the phone quickly enough."

The attorneys general of Illinois and Ohio sued Dependable Locksmith in December 2005 and June 2006, respectively, for repeated alleged violations of laws concerning consumer protection and deceptive business practices.

The Ohio attorney general's case is currently pending. The company was ordered to pay $2,875 in fines and cease its false advertising as a result of the Illinois attorney general's case, according to the CBBB.

"On the phone, they said it would cost $35 to unlock my car," said Carol Pintar of Oak Creek, Wis. "The guy showed up wanting to get paid first, but said $35 was just for coming out. He wanted another $95 to open the door."

According to Pintar, when she came up short, the locksmith offered her a ride in his car to find an ATM. She declined, and the locksmith ultimately accepted a cash payment of $95 total -- all the money Pintar had with her.

As of today, the CBBB reliability report for Dependable Locksmith shows more than 100 complaints filed within the last year. Only 12 have been fully resolved. Dependable Locksmith did not return repeated phone calls from ABC News seeking comment.

User Comments:

Extortion, what's the FBI doing, it crosses State line.

I've seen an operation like this in action before. I locked my keys in my car out near a motocross track. The phone book had several listings and I began calling them. Spoke to the first one, the operator told me a guy would be on his way in a little while. Called the second listing. Different number, different address. THE SAME WOMAN ANSWERED THE PHONE THAT I HAD JUST SPOKEN TO! I tried another listing. Again, different number, different address. SAME WOMAN ANSWERED AGAIN!

How is this newsworthy?

I'm a locksmith in southern Arizona & I find this article very depressing! 99% of Locksmiths take great pride in their work and often we open cars, homes and offices for free. You're there to help someone out of a jam and often times when you do it for free or half price folks will call you up later for other work. All good Locksmiths NEVER charge to open a car with a pet or child locked in, it's part of the code. Most of us charge a "trip charge" (most times under $40) to show up and figure out what the cost will be to complete the service. If someone doesn't like the price at that point we smile and wave the trip charge. Bottom line, speak with your locksmith on the phone to get an understanding of the fees we charge... most times we'll be happy to come out and give a quote for free. I hope the 1% of bad apples don't sour the rest of us. Thanks :)

Hey jeffery... this article **sticks up** for you and your fellow "proud" locksmiths, and it **separates** you from the "bad apples"... its doing you a favor. You serious?

Dear NYC-er,

With all due respect, you couldn't be more wrong. This is one nationwide scam that definitely deserves attention. I learned one basic thing from this article: if I get locked out of my car, I'm calling someone I trust--not these hooligans.

Dear nyc-er. I would like to say that this is a very news worthy story. I would bet that you are probably involved with one of these companies.

Thank you Mike Mitchell for a well done story. I hope you do follow ups on this one. It is much more sinister than most people know.

67 year old Ray Miller of stream wood IL was physically pushed and forced to pay 1710.00 to have his lock drilled open when he was locked out from a dependable locksmith employee. He was arrested and paled guilty.

These people are mostly Israeli nationals here on tourist visas and are not even supposed to be working. They have shown much disregard for the laws and authority's her in Illinois.

Matt, You haven't got a clue or at Mike said, you are one of them. These people rip-off hundreds, if not thousands of people and ruin locks to open them. They then charge many times the retail price for a junk lock to replace the ones they ruin. If you are not one of them, I hope you don't become one of their victims.

As for the fines they are charged when they are caught, they are a joke. One of their rip-off jobs will pay any fine.

These people are not LOCKSMITHS... QUIT calling them locksmiths. They are impostors. If and when you see a man impersonating a police officer do you call him a cop. NO! So QUIT calling this scam artist locksmiths.

Posted by: G.W. NULL | Jul 21, 2007 11:51:42 AM

BIBLE VERSE
Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life. - John 6:47

Newspaper Ads
Tyler Civic Theatre Center / The Sound of Music Published on 7/20/2007
Adjustable Sleep Systems Published on 7/25/2007
View more ads >Back to home » Business » Business Columns » Kay Robinson: BBB ReportThursday, July 26, 2007Kay Robinson: BBB ReportPosted on Sunday, July 22, 2007Email This Print This BBB Warns About Locksmith Scams

Kay RobinsonYou may have been a victim and not even known it.

The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

Ironically, these companies operate under names such as "Dependable Lock-smith" but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car. We've found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers' misfortune part of their business model.

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the United States increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith - which operates under more than a dozen different names - - as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. Consumers might think they're dealing with a local locksmith, but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives - typically in an unmarked vehicle - he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint about Dependable Locksmith, which was operating under the name "Superb Solutions," alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471. It included add-on fees, such as a $65 breaking-in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash. The victim, feeling unsafe, refused.

The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She canceled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn't simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith's aliases include Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad Inc. - which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour - and Liberty Locksmith.

Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page Yellow Pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty's in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone but charging significantly more at the site.

These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths. Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.

If you feel you've been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad Inc. or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

Kay Robinson is president of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas, serving 19 East Texas counties. To contact the BBB in Tyler, call [protected], and in Longview, call [protected] or [protected], or visit the Web site at www.easttexas.bbb.org. The organization can be e-mailed at info@tyler.bbb.org.

The Locksmith 'Mafia': Making an Estimate You Can't Refuse
Share July 18, 2007 8:51 AM

Mike Mitchell Reports:

A New York City-based locksmith business has been squeezing out competitors and fleecing customers across the country, drawing nationwide outrage from consumers and professionals alike, according to the Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB).

The CBBB, a non-profit organization that provides information on businesses to the public, told the Blotter on ABCNews.com that Dependable Locksmith is the most notorious of a number of "bully" locksmith companies known by some as "the locksmith mafia."

A CBBB reliability report about Dependable Locksmith asserts the company advertises in cities across the U.S., using addresses that appear local but are often non-existent. According to the CBBB, dispatchers in these areas pose as independently-run neighborhood locksmiths, and their late arrivals, unmarked vans, excessive fees and insistence on cash-only payments mark the modus operandi of the organization.

Locksmiths as far as Denver "are literally afraid" to speak out against these companies because of their tactics, said Susan Liehe, spokesperson for the Denver BBB.

Liehe added, "These sole-proprietor locksmiths are introverted, insanely ethical people who regard this whole operation with apprehension, resentment and fear. When I spoke with them, they couldn't get off the phone quickly enough."

The attorneys general of Illinois and Ohio sued Dependable Locksmith in December 2005 and June 2006, respectively, for repeated alleged violations of laws concerning consumer protection and deceptive business practices.

The Ohio attorney general's case is currently pending. The company was ordered to pay $2,875 in fines and cease its false advertising as a result of the Illinois attorney general's case, according to the CBBB.

"On the phone, they said it would cost $35 to unlock my car," said Carol Pintar of Oak Creek, Wis. "The guy showed up wanting to get paid first, but said $35 was just for coming out. He wanted another $95 to open the door."

According to Pintar, when she came up short, the locksmith offered her a ride in his car to find an ATM. She declined, and the locksmith ultimately accepted a cash payment of $95 total -- all the money Pintar had with her.

As of today, the CBBB reliability report for Dependable Locksmith shows more than 100 complaints filed within the last year. Only 12 have been fully resolved.

Dependable Locksmith did not return repeated phone calls from ABC News seeking comment.

Click Here for Full Blotter Coverage.

July 18, 2007 | Permalink | User Comments (11)

User Comments

Extortion, what's the FBI doing, it crosses State line.

Posted by: marc | Jul 18, 2007 9:24:50 AM

I've seen an operation like this in action before. I locked my keys in my car out near a motocross track. The phone book had several listings and I began calling them. Spoke to the first one, the operator told me a guy would be on his way in a little while. Called the second listing. Different number, different address. THE SAME WOMAN ANSWERED THE PHONE THAT I HAD JUST SPOKEN TO! I tried another listing. again, different number, different address. SAME WOMAN ANSWERED AGAIN!

Posted by: Matt | Jul 18, 2007 10:15:43 AM

How is this newsworthy?

Typical ABC reported nonsense.

Posted by: NYC-er | Jul 18, 2007 3:16:20 PM

I'm a locksmith in southern Arizona & I find this article very depressing! 99% of Locksmiths take great pride in their work and often we open cars, homes and offices for free. You're there to help someone out of a jam and often times when you do it for free or half price folks will call you up later for other work. All good Locksmiths NEVER charge to open a car with a pet or child locked in, it's part of the code. Most of us charge a "trip charge" (most times under $40) to show up and figure out what the cost will be to complete the service. If someone doesn't like the price at that point we smile and wave the trip charge. Bottom line, speak with your locksmith on the phone to get an understanding of the fees we charge...most times we'll be happy to come out and give a quote for free. I hope the 1% of bad apples don't sour the rest of us. Thanks :)

Posted by: Jeffery | Jul 18, 2007 5:22:42 PM

hey jeffery... this article **sticks up** for you and your fellow "proud" locksmiths, and it **separates** you from the "bad apples" ... its doin you a favor. you serious?

Posted by: literate | Jul 18, 2007 5:50:17 PM

Dear NYC-er,

With all due respect, you couldn't be more wrong. This is one nationwide scam that definitely deserves attention. I learned one basic thing from this article: if I get locked out of my car, I'm calling someone I trust--not these hooligans.

Posted by: News | Jul 18, 2007 5:51:38 PM

Dear nyc-er. I would like to say that this is a very news worthy story. I would bet that you are probably involved with one of these companies.

Thank you Mike Mitchell for a well done story. I hope you do followups on this one. It is much more sinister than most people know.

67 year old Ray Miller of streamwood IL was physically pushed and forced to pay 1710.00 to have his lock drilled open when he was locked out from a dependable locksmith employee. He was arressted and pled guilty.

These people are mostly Israeli nationals here on tourist visas and are not even supposed to be working. They have shown much disregard for the laws and authoritys her in Illinois.

Posted by: Mike Bronzell | Jul 21, 2007 2:08:00 AM

Matt, You haven't got a clue or at Mike said, you are one of them. These people rip-off hundreds, if not thousands of people and ruin locks to open them. They then charge many times the retail price for a junk lock to replace the ones they ruin. If you are not one of them, I hope you don't become one of their victims.

As for the fines they are charged when they are caught, they are a joke. One of their rip-off jobs will pay any fine.

Posted by: Autolockman | Jul 21, 2007 11:34:19 AM

These people are not LOCKSMITHS.. QUIT calling them locksmiths. They are imposters. If and when you see a man impersonating a police officer do you call him a cop. NO! So QUIT calling this scam artist locksmiths

Posted by: G.W. NULL | Jul 21, 2007 11:51:42 AM

I agree with Autolockman. These guys sure are as hell not locksmiths. Around my area, we refer to them as "drillsmiths". I'm a locksmith myself, and people like this are an embarassment to us all. If a "locksmith" shows up to a job in a car, then he's not a locksmith. If a "locksmith" shows up to a job with no equipment in his van, then he's not a locksmith. I can blame comsumers for these guys too. If the consumer refuses to pay these outrageous "fees", and call the authorities when these so called "locksmiths" try to extort them, they might already be out of business. If it's an emrtgency, contact the authorties. They will point you in the direction of a reliable locksmith.

Posted by: Shaolin912 | Jul 21, 2007 7:38:03 PM

Shaolin912,

I agree with you that a locksmith should show up with necessary tools and equipment, but how does the body style of his vehicle determine whether or not he is a locksmith? Please explain.

Posted by: Paul Leys | Jul 21, 2007 9:13:17 PM

Feedback| Wireless| E-mails & News Alerts| Message Boards| RSS Headlines| Podcasts| ABC News Store
Contact Us| ABC.com| Site Map| Advertising Info| Terms of Use| UPDATED Privacy Policy/Your California Privacy Rights
External links are provided for reference purposes. ABC News is not responsible for the content of external internet sites. Copyright © 2007 ABCNews Internet Ventures

A dependable locksmith?Seven's On Your Side

(New York-WABC, August 3, 2007) - They are called Dependable Locksmiths, but according to the Better Business Bureau, if you call them, you might find that you've been overcharged instead.

Seven On Your Side's Tappy Phillips found that complaints about this locksmith go way beyond the New York area.
The headquarters of Dependable Locksmiths is in the Bronx. But what does it have to do with ads in the Seattle phone book and a listing in Elizabeth, New Jersey? According to complaints made to the Better Business Bureau, they are all the same operation.

"In this particular case, it's a locksmith who quotes you one price over the phone, but when they get there it's not so reasonable," said Claire Rosenzweig of the Better Business Bureau.

We tested it out. We had our intern lock the keys to a Jeep in the ignition and call a 908-area code number for Dependable Locks.

We were quoted $39 to show up and then $15 and up depending on the difficulty of the job. Then they called back and said it might be $89. But when they were done, it was $125 dollars. And when we asked about the price hike?

Tappy Phillips: "You gave her a quote over the phone, then you called again and said $89 and now it's what, 125?"
Locksmith: "Yea, it's a $35 dollar service and $85 dollar to get the car open."
Tappy: "That's not what you told her, you told her eighty-five to get the car on ... now it's 125."
Locksmith: "Because the thirty-nine dollars was... "
Tappy: "You don't think that's deceptive? ..."

In the end, they agreed to accept $85 dollars.

And what about the Elizabeth, New Jersey address -- 169 Washington Avenue -- where Dependable claims they are? Well, it turns out it's not a locksmith at all, it's a pizzeria.

"When you call them you think you're calling someone local, you're not... you're calling some call center," Rosenzweig said.

According to the BBB, calls to Seattle, Elizabeth and numbers listed in other cities around the country, all go here.

Tappy: "The better Business Bureau has called you particularly disreputable."
Worker: "Excuse me, can you leave the premises."

So how do you protect yourself? The BBB suggests not waiting until you're locked out to locate a locksmith. Find one locally, check it out for complaints and keep the number in your wallet in case of emergencies.

(Copyright 2007 WABC-TV)

Avoid Shady Locksmiths:

When you are locked out of your home, you are in a poor position to haggle. And unfortunately, as this LA Times article points out, there are locksmiths out there who will take advantage of the situation. Just ask Pat McGrath, who was charged $200 when he broke his key in his mailbox lock - $80 for a lock and $120 for 15 minutes of labor. I wish I made $480 an hour. In California, locksmiths are required to be licensed to work in the state, but restrictions are low and enforcement is lax. The best advice to avoid being scammed is to be prepared. Don't wait until you need a locksmith, find a good one beforehand.

Author: Dave
Posted: August 9th, 2007
More Info: LA Times article
Categories: Security

Add To: Del.icio.us Digg Google Y! MyWeb Reddit

Discussion Post Reply

Title/Content Author

Avoid Phony locksmiths 08/09/2007 01:15 PM keyman424
Dave, thank you for your post about the phony locksmiths. How ever if you read to the bottom of the article you would see that they are phony locksmiths and not shady locksmiths.

My point is you are referring to them as shady locksmiths which implies that they are locksmiths when in fact they are not. This story only touches very lightly on this issue.

What is going on is that there are rings of these locksmith counterfeiters advertising all over the nation in just about every major city. They are using all kinds of fraudulent advertising to get consumers to believe they are locksmiths. They definitely are not.

These are israeli foreigners mostly and they are some really ruthless con artists. The mail box lock in the LA Times story is small in comparison to other incidents. Ray miller a senior citizen in Illinois was forced to pay 1700.00 when he was locked out of his home. There are many more of these with most of them ranging 4-5 dollars. There are many stories around the country about these phonies. Google them. or go to aloa.org to see the press room with many news articles listed.

Remember they are not locksmiths, but locksmith impersonators that are bait and switching consumers. They cant even pick locks but drill them and cause the consumer to purchase a highly over priced lockset to replace the one they just destroyed on your door.

People call a locksmith because they usually will get in with no damage to the locks.

They are phony locksmiths.

Mike Bronzell
Locksmith
Chicago IL.

BBB Warns About Locksmith Scams. Kay RobinsonYou may have been a victim and not even known it. The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

Ironically, these companies operate under names such as "Dependable Lock-smith" but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car. We've found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers' misfortune part of their business model.

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the United States increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith - which operates under more than a dozen different names - - as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. Consumers might think they're dealing with a local locksmith, but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives - typically in an unmarked vehicle - he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint about Dependable Locksmith, which was operating under the name "Superb Solutions," alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471. It included add-on fees, such as a $65 breaking-in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash. The victim, feeling unsafe, refused.

The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She canceled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn't simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith's aliases include Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad Inc. - which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour - and Liberty Locksmith.

Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page Yellow Pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty's in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone but charging significantly more at the site.

These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths. Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.

If you feel you've been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad Inc. or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

Kay Robinson is president of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas, serving 19 East Texas counties. To contact the BBB in Tyler, call [protected], and in Longview, call [protected] or [protected], or visit the Web site at www.easttexas.bbb.org. The organization can be e-mailed at info@tyler.bbb.org.

BBB Warns About Locksmith Scams. Kay RobinsonYou may have been a victim and not even known it. The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

Ironically, these companies operate under names such as "Dependable Lock-smith" but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car. We've found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers' misfortune part of their business model.

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the United States increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith - which operates under more than a dozen different names - - as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. Consumers might think they're dealing with a local locksmith, but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives - typically in an unmarked vehicle - he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint about Dependable Locksmith, which was operating under the name "Superb Solutions," alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471. It included add-on fees, such as a $65 breaking-in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash. The victim, feeling unsafe, refused.

The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She canceled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn't simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith's aliases include Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad Inc. - which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour - and Liberty Locksmith.

Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page Yellow Pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty's in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone but charging significantly more at the site.

These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths. Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.

If you feel you've been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad Inc. or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

Kay Robinson is president of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas, serving 19 East Texas counties. To contact the BBB in Tyler, call [protected], and in Longview, call [protected] or [protected], or visit the Web site at www.easttexas.bbb.org. The organization can be e-mailed at info@tyler.bbb.org.

BBB Warns About Locksmith Scams. Kay RobinsonYou may have been a victim and not even known it. The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

Ironically, these companies operate under names such as "Dependable Lock-smith" but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car. We've found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers' misfortune part of their business model.

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the United States increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith - which operates under more than a dozen different names - - as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. Consumers might think they're dealing with a local locksmith, but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives - typically in an unmarked vehicle - he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint about Dependable Locksmith, which was operating under the name "Superb Solutions," alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471. It included add-on fees, such as a $65 breaking-in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash. The victim, feeling unsafe, refused.

The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She canceled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn't simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith's aliases include Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad Inc. - which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour - and Liberty Locksmith.

Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page Yellow Pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty's in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone but charging significantly more at the site.

These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths. Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.

If you feel you've been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad Inc. or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

Kay Robinson is president of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas, serving 19 East Texas counties. To contact the BBB in Tyler, call [protected], and in Longview, call [protected] or [protected], or visit the Web site at www.easttexas.bbb.org. The organization can be e-mailed at info@tyler.bbb.org.

Kay Robinson: BBB ReportWednesday, August 22, 2007Kay Robinson: BBB ReportPosted on Sunday, July 22, 2007Email This Print This BBB Warns About Locksmith Scams. Kay RobinsonYou may have been a victim and not even known it. The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

Ironically, these companies operate under names such as "Dependable Lock-smith" but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car. We've found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers' misfortune part of their business model.

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the United States increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith - which operates under more than a dozen different names - - as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. Consumers might think they're dealing with a local locksmith, but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives - typically in an unmarked vehicle - he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash. A complaint about Dependable Locksmith, which was operating under the name "Superb Solutions," alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471. It included add-on fees, such as a $65 breaking-in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash. The victim, feeling unsafe, refused.

The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She canceled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn't simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith's aliases include Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith and S.O.S. Locksmith.
Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad Inc. - which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour - and Liberty Locksmith.

Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page Yellow Pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty's in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone but charging significantly more at the site.
These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths. Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.

If you feel you've been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad Inc. or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

Kay Robinson is president of the Better Business Bureau of Central East Texas, serving 19 East Texas counties. To contact the BBB in Tyler, call [protected], and in Longview, call [protected] or [protected], or visit the Web site at www.easttexas.bbb.org. The organization can be e-mailed at info@tyler.bbb.org.

BBB Warns Consumers of Nationwide Locksmith Swindle. You may have been a victim and not even know it. For Immediate Release:

Arlington, VA – July 10, 2007 – The Better Business Bureau (BBB) today is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics, and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

“Ironically, these companies operate under names like ‘Dependable Locksmith’ but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car,” said Steve Cox spokesperson for the BBB System. “We’ve found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers’ misfortune part of their business model.”

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the U.S. increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith – which operates under more than a dozen different names – as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. A consumer might think they’re dealing with a local locksmith but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives – typically in an unmarked vehicle – he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint from Cleveland, OH, where Dependable Locksmith was operating under the name “Superb Solutions,” alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471, which included add-on fees such as a $65 breaking in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash – feeling unsafe the victim refused. The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She canceled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn’t simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith’s aliases include, Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith, and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad, Inc. – which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith, and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour – and Liberty Locksmith. Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page yellow pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty’s in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Liberty Locksmith had been a BBB member in Tulsa, OK, but during normal BBB member validation processes, it was discovered that the addresses provided by the company were false. In June 2007, the BBB terminated the membership of Liberty Locksmith for providing false information in its membership application and providing misleading advertisements to the public.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad, Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone, but then charging significantly more on site.

“These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths,” said Mr. Cox. “Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.”

If you feel you’ve been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad. Inc., or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

# # #
About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased, non-profit entity that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses and charities that earn BBB membership contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free business Reliability Reports and charity Wise Giving Reports, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 128 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 3 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

# # #

Reporters and journalists may contact Steve Cox, CBBB's Vice President, Communications, or call 703.276.0100 to request an interview or additional information. If you are a consumer who is seeking additional information, or need assistance with a complaint against a business, please contact your local BBB, visit the BBB web site (www.bbb.org) or call 703.276.0100.

About Us | Site Map | Privacy Policy | Trademarks | Terms & Conditions of Use | Contact Us
© 2003 Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

7 ON YOUR SIDE
Aug. 22, 2007 - KGO - Investigators suspect there may be a link between a Bay Area locksmith and a possible scam that stretches from here to New York. It's a story seven on your side has been investigating for months, and whether there's a connection or not.

"I think he took advantage of an old lady. Whether he meant it or not, I don't know," said Rose Golobic from San Bruno.

Rose Golobic of San Bruno says a locksmith charged her $1,500 dollars to change her lock. She knows now she paid 15 times the going rate.

She says an unlicensed locksmith drove her to the bank so she could pay him.

"I was so upset. I probably shouldn't have gone with him, but I did it. and drew up $1, 500 dollars. Lucky I had it," said Rose Golobic of San Bruno.

It's her story that lead to the arrest of 29-year old Moshe Mizrachi. He faces trial next month on elderly abuse and identity theft charges in San Mateo County.

He's suspected of a scam similar to the one Dependable Locksmith is accused of running out of New York. The Better Business Bureau says the company quotes one rate over the phone, then charges something much higher.

That's what Geraldine Moore of San Francisco says happened to her.

"He just said it would be $100 dollars. As it turned out it was $500 dollars," said Geraldine Moore of San Francisco.

She says the locksmith identified himself as Idan Finkelstein and asked Geraldine to pay with a personal check made out to him. Finkelstein is the man identified at Moshe Mizrachi's arraignment as the locksmith's partner. Finkelstein has not been charged with any crime, and they are both are part of USA A-1 Locksmith.

Locksmiths and at least one investigator we talked to say USA A-1 Locksmith here in the Bay Area and dependable in New York may somehow be tied together.

Our sister station in New York decided to pay Dependable a visit.

"Hi, how are you? We're from Channel 7. Do you work here?" Said the reporter.

"No," said the unidentified person.

"No? That's very interesting. You just wondering around here? We'd like to talk to someone. You know the Better Business Bureau has called you very disreputable. Misleading," said the reporter.

"Excuse me. This is private property. You guys have to get off the property," said the second unidentified person.

"Come on. There you go," said the first unidentified person.

"Let me ask you. The Better Business Bureau says this is a particularly," said the reporter.

"No comment," said the second unidentified person.

There are numerous similarities between Dependable and USA A-1 Locksmith. Investigators say many involved with Dependable are from Israel. Part of USA A-1's Web site is coded in Hebrew.

"That prompted me to do some more searching. Looking at the domain name, USA A-1 Locksmith, found out the site is hosted out of Israel," said Matt Sawicki, a Web developer.

Both companies use multiple names and phone numbers. The Better Business Bureau says Dependable goes by at least 50 other names including A-1 Locksmith Service.

USA A-1 also goes by several names including A-1 San Bruno Locksmith, and the Better Business Bureau says both also target people locked out of their cars and homes.

"The locksmith comes out. You're locked out of your car in the middle of the night. You're locked out of your house. There's not much you can do. You're going to pay the price," said Gene O'Neil from the Better Business Bureau.

Investigators say dependable spread out from New York to such cities as Phoenix, Chicago, Milwaukee, Atlanta, Colorado Springs, and the Bay Area.

It's believed all calls are routed to a calling center in New York.

USA A-1 Locksmith is set up throughout the Bay Area and all calls were forwarded to this call center in San Francisco before it was abandoned.

ABC7 reported back in March that according to a former employee that company has plans to expand nationwide. The Better Business Bureau says dependable using the name superb solutions was in the bay area less than a year ago.

"We had a few complaints on them and then they're gone," said O'Neil.

But one investigator suspects USA A-1 Locksmith is an offshoot of dependable.

"I have some information although unconfirmed that some of these companies, the spin offs, were previous employees of SOS or Dependable out of New York," said Kent Paluga from the Texas Department of Public Safety.

One major difference, USA A-1 Locksmith is accused of bilking its customers for a lot more money; sometimes $500 dollars, sometimes even thousands of dollars.

"I think it was very bad for me to lose that amount of money because I got locked out of my house," said Moore.

Although victims of USA A-1 Locksmith have come forward in San Francisco, Santa Clara, Alameda and Sacramento counties, so far only San Mateo county has pressed charges.

To read other Seven On Your Side locksmith investigations, click here.

Copyright 2007, ABC7/KGO-TV/DT.

BBB Warns Consumers of Nationwide Locksmith Swindle
You may have been a victim and not even know it.
For Immediate Release

Arlington, VA – July 10, 2007 – The Better Business Bureau (BBB) today is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics, and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

“Ironically, these companies operate under names like ‘Dependable Locksmith’ but in reality they exploit the vulnerable situation of consumers who are locked out of their house or car,” said Steve Cox spokesperson for the BBB System. “We’ve found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers’ misfortune part of their business model.”

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the U.S. increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith – which operates under more than a dozen different names – as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. A consumer might think they’re dealing with a local locksmith but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone but when the locksmith arrives – typically in an unmarked vehicle – he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

A complaint from Cleveland, OH, where Dependable Locksmith was operating under the name “Superb Solutions,” alleges the company quoted fees of $39 and $84 for separate jobs, but the bill ended up at $471, which included add-on fees such as a $65 breaking in fee and a $58 fee to uninstall old locks.

Another complainant reported that the locksmith sent to let her into her car demanded she pay twice the price quoted over the phone. The locksmith offered to drive her to an ATM to get cash – feeling unsafe the victim refused. The victim was ultimately forced to write a check made out personally to the locksmith as he would not let her into her car until she did so. She cancelled payment on the check the next morning, but eventually filed a police report after the locksmith harassed her with continuous phone calls about payment.

The BBB has also heard many complaints from victims who say they were charged for unnecessary services. For example, complainants suspect locksmiths sent over by Dependable Locksmiths of pretending they couldn’t simply pick the lock so that they could charge more and install all new locks in homes.

Some of Dependable Locksmith’s aliases include, Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour, Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith, and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fleecing consumers are Basad, Inc. – which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith, and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour – and Liberty Locksmith. Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page yellow pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local, but connect to national call centers such as Liberty’s in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

Liberty Locksmith had been a BBB member in Tulsa, OK, but during normal BBB member validation processes, it was discovered that the addresses provided by the company were false. In June 2007, the BBB terminated the membership of Liberty Locksmith for providing false information in its membership application and providing misleading advertisements to the public.

Like others, Liberty Locksmith and Basad, Inc. use common cons such as quoting one price over the phone, but then charging significantly more on site.

“These companies are very good at posing as trustworthy locksmiths,” said Mr. Cox. “Before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.”

If you feel you’ve been taken advantage of by Dependable Locksmith, Liberty Locksmith, Basad. Inc., or others, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org.

# # #
About the BBB System

BBB is an unbiased, non-profit entity that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses and charities that earn BBB membership contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB provides objective advice, free business Reliability Reports and charity Wise Giving Reports, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses when there is difference in viewpoints. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 128 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than 3 million local and national businesses and charities. Please visit www.bbb.org for more information about the BBB System.

# # #

Reporters and journalists may contact Steve Cox, CBBB's Vice President, Communications, or call 703.276.0100 to request an interview or additional information.
If you are a consumer who is seeking additional information, or need assistance with a complaint against a business, please contact your local BBB, visit the BBB web site (www.bbb.org) or call 703.276.0100.

About Us | Site Map | Privacy Policy | Trademarks | Terms & Conditions of Use | Contact Us
© 2003 Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Locks myth
Not all locksmiths are on the up and up. Before you pick a person to help you in a pinch, read this.
BY DEBRA O'CONNOR
Pioneer Press
TwinCities.com-Pioneer Press
Article Last Updated:08/20/2007 12:07:56 PM CDT

When Kelly Wilhelm's daughter locked the keys in her car, Wilhelm scanned the phone directory and called 24 Hour A Locksmith, which listed an address of 2120 Williams Drive in Burnsville. An hour and a half later, a man in a beat-up car arrived and poked at the lock with a wire that Wilhelm says looked like a coat hanger. After he got the door opened, he charged her $160 - the going rate for this service is about one-third of that - and said he wanted it in cash. She didn't have that much on hand, so he told her to drive to an ATM and that he'd follow her.

"He just looked like a shady character, and I was by myself," she told the Watchdog. "That's why he ended up ripping me off, because I was afraid."

The name on the handwritten invoice was "Ocean," different than the name she'd called, and the phone number was from Florida. That local address? It didn't exist - so the complaint letter the Better Business Bureau sent came right back. When the Watchdog called the Florida number, which identified itself as 24-7 Locksmiths, the customer service manager said: "I'm not going to provide any information to anyone representing herself as a reporter."

The Better Business Bureau recently issued a nationwide warning after several people complained about being overcharged and intimidated by unscrupulous locksmith companies. These outfits take advantage of people locked out of their cars and homes, a situation in which they're vulnerable and likely unfamiliar with the names listed in the phone book.

In 2005, the BBB received 247 complaints about locksmiths; last year, there were 427. In Minnesota, there were three complaints in 2005, eight in 2006, and 17 so far this year.

The complaints include deliberately ruining locks, or deeming them unpickable, then charging customers to put in new ones. And there's the fear that the locksmiths may keep an extra key when locks are installed.

One company with a bad reputation is Dependable Locksmith, which is headquartered in the Bronx but has several outposts in the Twin Cities, including All Ready, 24 Hour A1 Locksmiths, 24 Hour Locksmiths and AAA Emergency System. Customers may think they're choosing from among competing companies, but all those different local phone numbers go directly to the same New York operator. Dependable was sued by the Ohio attorney general for false advertising, unauthorized repairs and consumer protection law violations, and fined in Chicago for operating and advertising under 17 business names with false addresses.

Is what they do against the law?

"If you're misrepresenting your actual geographic location, that's wrong, and that's illegal," said Lisa Jemtrud, trade practices manager at the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota.

Brian Busch at first was told over the phone by Always Ready (a company supposedly located in Minne-apolis but linked to Dependable, it has two full-page ads in one phone book) the charge would be $55 maximum. After the car was unlocked within a few minutes, Busch was asked for $141. When he objected, it was lowered to $104.

Busch said he later called a toll-free customer-service number to complain, but they gave him "a song and dance." A call to Dependable by the Watchdog was not returned.

"It was covered by insurance, but the thing is, it's a rip-off," Busch said. "I think it's just highway robbery." Editor's note: Feel like an underdog because of a problem with a business, government agency or school? Maybe the Pioneer Press Watchdog can help. Call [protected] or send an e-mail.

THE KEYS TO A RELIABLE LOCKSMITH.

Here are the keys to picking a reliable locksmith instead of an unscrupulous one, according to the Better Business Bureau:

Listen to how your phone call is answered. If, instead of the name in the phone book, it's something vague, like "locksmith services," that may mean the company's not really local, even with a local address and phone number. The company may be operating under a variety of names.

Get a very specific estimate over the phone. For example, ask how much it will cost if the locksmith is able to get into your car or house within 10 minutes. Ask for the additional cost of a "worst-case scenario." And ask what forms of payment the company takes.

Check with the Better Business Bureau for a report on the company. It takes only a few minutes at [protected] or www.mnd.bbb.org. That will tell you if there have been unresolved complaints. In addition, you can ask for locksmiths that are BBB members, which means they've passed standards set by the BBB.

The following locksmiths are BBB members: A-1 Lock Service by Kee-Wee, St. Paul; All City Lock & Key, Minneapolis; Blaine Lock & Safe, Blaine; Blaine Security Locksmith, Blaine; CK Locksmith, St. Paul; Dale Lock & Safe, Minneapolis; Dale Schaar's Lock & Safe Service Co., Minneapolis; Dale's Lock & Safe Service Co., Minneapolis; Lockguard Inc., Minnetonka; Moseng Locksmith Co., Hastings; Registered Locksmiths, Minneapolis; Speedy Keys, Minneapolis.

When the locksmith comes, confirm the pricing and the payment method before the lock is worked on.

Ask for proof the locksmith is insured and bonded. Some states require locksmiths to be licensed, but Minnesota and Wisconsin do not.

Be skeptical if the locksmith immediately tells you he has to drill and replace the lock; in reality, that's a rarity.

Get an itemized invoice.

September 13, 2007- Pasco, WashingtonNews
Bogus Locksmiths: What to Know Before an Emergency

YouNewsTV™
Related Content
Locksmith scam makes a bad day even worse
Read more of KATU's 2 On Your Side stories
Story Published: Sep 11, 2007 at 2:16 PM PDT
By Shellie Bailey-Shah and KATU Web Staff
Video PORTLAND, Ore. - When most of us need a locksmith we open the phone book or look one up on the Internet and dial, but when you do that, are you opening yourself up to being scammed?

For Claudine Werner, it seemed simple enough to go to the Internet and find a local locksmith to change the locks on her new condo.

"I called the number and asked 'are you in Tigard?' and she said yes," Werner said.

Only later would she find out the locksmith was not actually local. She had actually called a dispatcher, possibly located in Arizona, who sent out a technician here in Portland.

When the locksmith arrived, Werner was suspicious. His vehicle was not marked, he did not have a uniform and when it came time to pay, he wanted the check made out to him - $165, much more than she had expected to pay.

It was not until she tried to get her key duplicated that she realized the locksmith had put her home at risk.

Brent Hansen, a reputable locksmith showed KATU News what Werner could not see - not only had she not been given the two original keys for the lock, the lock itself had been set to accept a master key.

"A stranger could have a key to my home," she said.

When KATU News tried to get in contact with the locksmith Werner had hired, Aviram Adi, we were told the man never worked for the company, Complete Locksmith. A week later, we tried again and were told this time that the man was on a long vacation.

The more questions we asked, the more the story changed. Eventually, we talk to a manager, who refused to give his full name, but said the man must have made a mistake.

"This is something that's been widespread across the U.S.," said Les Harvey with Pacific Locksmith Association. "It's really dangerous because you don't know who you're giving your key to or who is working on your safe."

This is what you need to know if you are hiring a locksmith:

Do not rely on the phone book or the Internet to find a local company - physically verify that the store really exists.
Check the locksmith's license number with the Oregon Construction Contractor's Board. Any locksmith who is doing work on your house is required to have one.
Keep the name and phone number of a reputable locksmith in your wallet in case you lock your keys in your car. That way, you are not relying on directory assistance to find a locksmith in an emergency.

September 13, 2007- Pasco, WashingtonNews
Bogus Locksmiths: What to Know Before an Emergency

YouNewsTV™
Related Content
Locksmith scam makes a bad day even worse
Read more of KATU's 2 On Your Side stories
Story Published: Sep 11, 2007 at 2:16 PM PDT
By Shellie Bailey-Shah and KATU Web Staff
Video PORTLAND, Ore. - When most of us need a locksmith we open the phone book or look one up on the Internet and dial, but when you do that, are you opening yourself up to being scammed?

For Claudine Werner, it seemed simple enough to go to the Internet and find a local locksmith to change the locks on her new condo.

"I called the number and asked 'are you in Tigard?' and she said yes," Werner said.

Only later would she find out the locksmith was not actually local. She had actually called a dispatcher, possibly located in Arizona, who sent out a technician here in Portland.

When the locksmith arrived, Werner was suspicious. His vehicle was not marked, he did not have a uniform and when it came time to pay, he wanted the check made out to him - $165, much more than she had expected to pay.

It was not until she tried to get her key duplicated that she realized the locksmith had put her home at risk.

Brent Hansen, a reputable locksmith showed KATU News what Werner could not see - not only had she not been given the two original keys for the lock, the lock itself had been set to accept a master key.

"A stranger could have a key to my home," she said.

When KATU News tried to get in contact with the locksmith Werner had hired, Aviram Adi, we were told the man never worked for the company, Complete Locksmith. A week later, we tried again and were told this time that the man was on a long vacation.

The more questions we asked, the more the story changed. Eventually, we talk to a manager, who refused to give his full name, but said the man must have made a mistake.

"This is something that's been widespread across the U.S.," said Les Harvey with Pacific Locksmith Association. "It's really dangerous because you don't know who you're giving your key to or who is working on your safe."

This is what you need to know if you are hiring a locksmith:

Do not rely on the phone book or the Internet to find a local company - physically verify that the store really exists.
Check the locksmith's license number with the Oregon Construction Contractor's Board. Any locksmith who is doing work on your house is required to have one.
Keep the name and phone number of a reputable locksmith in your wallet in case you lock your keys in your car. That way, you are not relying on directory assistance to find a locksmith in an emergency.

Better Business Bureau: Get to know your locksmith before you need services
Sharane Gott
Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Acadiana today is warning consumers to beware of untrustworthy locksmith companies that are ripping off consumers across the country.

Victim complaints to the BBB reveal that several locksmith companies, all using similar methods, are significantly overcharging consumers, charging consumers for unnecessary services, using intimidation tactics and failing to give refunds or respond to consumer complaints.

The BBB has found that some locksmiths have made taking advantage of consumers’ misfortune part of their business model.

Complaints about locksmith services to the 114 BBBs serving the U.S. increased almost 75 percent from 2005 to 2006, and have continued to come in steadily during the first half of this year.

The BBB has identified Dependable Locksmith — which operates under more than a dozen different names — as a particularly disreputable locksmith. This company poses as a local locksmith in cities across the country and advertises in the yellow pages using local phone numbers and fake local addresses. A consumer might think they’re dealing with a local locksmith, but their phone call is actually connected to a call center located in the Bronx borough of New York City.

Consumers are quoted a reasonable price over the phone, but when the locksmith arrives — typically in an unmarked vehicle — he demands significantly more money than originally quoted, often only accepting cash.

Some of Dependable Locksmith’s aliases include Superb Solutions, Locksmith 24 Hour Inc., USA Total Security, Priceline Locksmith and S.O.S. Locksmith.

Two other locksmith contractors fall into the disreputable category are Basad Inc. — which operates under more than 50 names nationwide, such as A-1 Locksmith Service, A-1 24 Hour Locksmith, A-1 Lock & Key Locksmith and AAA Locksmith 24 Hour — and Liberty Locksmith. Similar to Dependable Locksmith, they pose as local locksmiths and run full-page yellow pages ads with multiple phone and address listings. The phone numbers appear to be local but connect to national call centers such as Liberty’s in New York City, while the addresses end up belonging to other established businesses in the local area, or are simply non-existent.

The BBB suggests before you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being locked out of your car or house, do your research and find a truly dependable locksmith in your area. Ask around and always check with the BBB first to find reputable businesses.

If you feel you’ve been taken advantage of by a company, please contact the BBB to file a complaint, or do so online at www.bbb.org. Receive information on local companies by calling the BBB’s Smart Call [protected] hours a day.
Sharane Gott, president of the Better Business Bureau of Acadiana, a nonprofit funded by ethical business, may be reached at 981-3497 or contact the BBB on its Web site: www.acadiana.bbb.org.

Some Locksmiths Cost Customers More Than They Bargained ForProblems Reported By Consumers Across the Country
By Ric Romero
Sept. 20, 2007 (KABC-TV) - The Better Business Bureau has received over a thousand complaints about unscrupulous locksmiths that have customers paying a lot more than they bargained for.

Related Links
LINK: Recommended Locksmiths (www.findalocksmith.com)
It's happened to many of us at one time or another, getting locked out of your car or home. While there's no doubt most locksmiths are reputable and provide the rescue you need, there are several companies that really only want your money.

When you're locked out of your car or house, you rush to hire a locksmith, and the majority of time you will get a reputable worker at your door, but that's not always the case.

"We're hearing from consumers across the country who have been swindled by unethical locksmiths," Alison Preszler, of the Better Business Bureau, said.

The Better Business Bureau says they've received more than a thousand complaints, most over the past year or so, about companies that have legitimate sounding names but use local phone numbers with fake addresses. And when you dial, you're transferred to a call center that could be thousands of miles away.

"They're not forthcoming at all about where they're located," Preszler said.

So they quote you a price and dispatch one of their representatives in your area.

"They're very unprofessional. He demands two, three, even four times the amount quoted over the phone and he's not going to let you into your house or car until he gets it," Preszler said.

"That's what made me angry," Carol Pintar said.

Pintar got locked out of her car while it was running. She was quoted $55 but that didn't get her back behind the wheel.

"He said, 'Oh, no. That $55 is just for me coming here. You owe me another $95,'" Pintar said.

But she only had $40 extra, which he took.

"He opened my door in about two seconds. I knew I was taken to the cleaners. And I thought, 'Oh, man. If they're doing this to me, they're doing this all over,'" Pintar said.

The locksmith industry is aware of these questionable companies and says people being overcharged isn't the only problem.

"They may tell the consumer that they need new locks and that they're prepared to put in some high security locks in for them and they turn around and put in substandard locks," Tim McMullen, of Locksmiths of America, said.

"It's an epidemic. Out of all industries, the locksmith industry should be the one that a consumer knows that they can call and they're going to have somebody that's going to be honest, trustworthy," Jason Gage, a locksmith, said.

So, how can you make sure the locksmith you're hiring is trustworthy? The Better Business Bureau says be wary of servicemen in unmarked cars, who don't wear uniforms or present identification.

"The Better Business Bureau recommends that you do your research ahead of time and find a reputable locksmith before you find yourself in an emergency," Preszler said.

If you're looking for a locksmith, the Associated Locksmiths of America says it can make recommendations for a reputable company in your neighborhood.

Copyright © 2007 KABC-TV. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Some Locksmiths Cost Customers More Than They Bargained ForProblems Reported By Consumers Across the Country
By Ric Romero
Sept. 20, 2007 (KABC-TV) - The Better Business Bureau has received over a thousand complaints about unscrupulous locksmiths that have customers paying a lot more than they bargained for.

Related Links
LINK: Recommended Locksmiths (www.findalocksmith.com)
It's happened to many of us at one time or another, getting locked out of your car or home. While there's no doubt most locksmiths are reputable and provide the rescue you need, there are several companies that really only want your money.

When you're locked out of your car or house, you rush to hire a locksmith, and the majority of time you will get a reputable worker at your door, but that's not always the case.

"We're hearing from consumers across the country who have been swindled by unethical locksmiths," Alison Preszler, of the Better Business Bureau, said.

The Better Business Bureau says they've received more than a thousand complaints, most over the past year or so, about companies that have legitimate sounding names but use local phone numbers with fake addresses. And when you dial, you're transferred to a call center that could be thousands of miles away.

"They're not forthcoming at all about where they're located," Preszler said.

So they quote you a price and dispatch one of their representatives in your area.

"They're very unprofessional. He demands two, three, even four times the amount quoted over the phone and he's not going to let you into your house or car until he gets it," Preszler said.

"That's what made me angry," Carol Pintar said.

Pintar got locked out of her car while it was running. She was quoted $55 but that didn't get her back behind the wheel.

"He said, 'Oh, no. That $55 is just for me coming here. You owe me another $95,'" Pintar said.

But she only had $40 extra, which he took.

"He opened my door in about two seconds. I knew I was taken to the cleaners. And I thought, 'Oh, man. If they're doing this to me, they're doing this all over,'" Pintar said.

The locksmith industry is aware of these questionable companies and says people being overcharged isn't the only problem.

"They may tell the consumer that they need new locks and that they're prepared to put in some high security locks in for them and they turn around and put in substandard locks," Tim McMullen, of Locksmiths of America, said.

"It's an epidemic. Out of all industries, the locksmith industry should be the one that a consumer knows that they can call and they're going to have somebody that's going to be honest, trustworthy," Jason Gage, a locksmith, said.

So, how can you make sure the locksmith you're hiring is trustworthy? The Better Business Bureau says be wary of servicemen in unmarked cars, who don't wear uniforms or present identification.

"The Better Business Bureau recommends that you do your research ahead of time and find a reputable locksmith before you find yourself in an emergency," Preszler said.

If you're looking for a locksmith, the Associated Locksmiths of America says it can make recommendations for a reputable company in your neighborhood.

Copyright © 2007 KABC-TV. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Man sentenced for fraudulent locksmith scheme
Article Last Updated: 09/26/2007 01:52:07 PM PDT

An Israeli man who impersonated a San Bruno locksmith and bilked an 86-year-old homeowner, and possibly several others, for repairs was sentenced to three years' probation this morning in San Mateo County Superior Court and ordered to pay restitution to two victims.

Moshe Mizrachi, 29, pleaded no contest Aug. 28 to charges of identity theft, for passing himself off as an employee of A-1 San Bruno Locksmith, a company police later learned had been dissolved in 2006 after the owner died, according to prosecutors.

San Bruno police set up a sting operation after the 86-year-old woman, who locked herself out of her home and called the company, reported she had been charged $1,500 by Mizrachi and another, as-yet-unidentified man, to change a single lock.

According to San Mateo County Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe, the woman is on a fixed income and told the men she didn't have enough money to pay, so they convinced her to go to the bank.

Minus $1,500 for the new lock on her door, the woman notified police, who learned from the widow of the company's actual owner that he had died in 2006 and the business had shut down. Police then called the company's phone number asking for a locksmith, and when Mizrachi showed up, he was arrested.

According to Wagstaffe, there were multiple reports to a local television station from other residents complaining about being overcharged by the same locksmith company.

After serving 92 days in county jail, Mizrachi received a three-year probationary sentence at his sentencing this morning, and was ordered to repay approximately $2,300 to two victims.

Authorities have advised residents to always ask hired workers for formal identification and their license to do the work, and if anything seems suspicious, to call police.

Man sentenced for fraudulent locksmith scheme
Article Last Updated: 09/26/2007 01:52:07 PM PDT

An Israeli man who impersonated a San Bruno locksmith and bilked an 86-year-old homeowner, and possibly several others, for repairs was sentenced to three years' probation this morning in San Mateo County Superior Court and ordered to pay restitution to two victims.

Moshe Mizrachi, 29, pleaded no contest Aug. 28 to charges of identity theft, for passing himself off as an employee of A-1 San Bruno Locksmith, a company police later learned had been dissolved in 2006 after the owner died, according to prosecutors.

San Bruno police set up a sting operation after the 86-year-old woman, who locked herself out of her home and called the company, reported she had been charged $1,500 by Mizrachi and another, as-yet-unidentified man, to change a single lock.

According to San Mateo County Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe, the woman is on a fixed income and told the men she didn't have enough money to pay, so they convinced her to go to the bank.

Minus $1,500 for the new lock on her door, the woman notified police, who learned from the widow of the company's actual owner that he had died in 2006 and the business had shut down. Police then called the company's phone number asking for a locksmith, and when Mizrachi showed up, he was arrested.

According to Wagstaffe, there were multiple reports to a local television station from other residents complaining about being overcharged by the same locksmith company.

serving 92 days in county jail, Mizrachi received a three-year probationary sentence at his sentencing this morning, and was ordered to repay approximately $2,300 to two victims.

Authorities have advised residents to always ask hired workers for formal identification and their license to do the work, and if anything seems suspicious, to call police.

Man sentenced for fraudulent locksmith scheme
Article Last Updated: 09/26/2007 01:52:07 PM PDT

An Israeli man who impersonated a San Bruno locksmith and bilked an 86-year-old homeowner, and possibly several others, for repairs was sentenced to three years' probation this morning in San Mateo County Superior Court and ordered to pay restitution to two victims.

Moshe Mizrachi, 29, pleaded no contest Aug. 28 to charges of identity theft, for passing himself off as an employee of A-1 San Bruno Locksmith, a company police later learned had been dissolved in 2006 after the owner died, according to prosecutors.

San Bruno police set up a sting operation after the 86-year-old woman, who locked herself out of her home and called the company, reported she had been charged $1,500 by Mizrachi and another, as-yet-unidentified man, to change a single lock.

According to San Mateo County Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe, the woman is on a fixed income and told the men she didn't have enough money to pay, so they convinced her to go to the bank.

Minus $1,500 for the new lock on her door, the woman notified police, who learned from the widow of the company's actual owner that he had died in 2006 and the business had shut down. Police then called the company's phone number asking for a locksmith, and when Mizrachi showed up, he was arrested.

According to Wagstaffe, there were multiple reports to a local television station from other residents complaining about being overcharged by the same locksmith company.

After serving 92 days in county jail, Mizrachi received a three-year probationary sentence at his sentencing this morning, and was ordered to repay approximately $2,300 to two victims.

Authorities have advised residents to always ask hired workers for formal identification and their license to do the work, and if anything seems suspicious, to call police.

By Shelley Shelton, Arizona Daily Star
Azstarnet.com
09.30.2007

Tucson, AZ - A national trend in shady locksmithing has hit home, leaving Tucson's legitimate locksmiths looking for ways to combat the problem and stay in business. The trend hits consumers in a particularly vulnerable spot — the locks that help keep them and their valuables safe.

The new Dex phone book contains several locksmith listings for companies with different names that each have 24 different phone numbers and 10 different addresses. The phone numbers and addresses for each of the businesses are exact duplicates of those listed for the other businesses.

There is no building at the sites of at least four of the 10 addresses listed for A O A Locksmith, which also goes by the names A 01 Locksmith, Absolute Locksmith and several others scattered throughout the white business pages of the phone book.

"It's a very bad business practice. It's giving a lot of us a bad name," said Justin Ashler, an employee of Al's Locksmith and Security Hardware Inc. Ashler has been working to organize longtime Tucson locksmiths, who met last week to discuss the newcomers. Al's is getting daily reports of people being ripped off, he said.

Such reports include people being overcharged for small jobs and people who pay a 400 percent to 700 percent markup for parts, he said. Shady locksmiths have also been showing up at jobs for which they weren't hired and pretending to be the company that was hired, again overcharging in the process, Ashler said.

Meanwhile, "my phone has pretty much stopped ringing for any weekday calls," so they're definitely hurting business, he said.

The phenomenon apparently is not limited to Tucson. The September issue of Keynotes, a monthly magazine published by the Associated Locksmiths of America, has a two-page article about it.

"In 2007, we are faced with an epidemic that our industry has not seen before," writes author Jason Gage. "It is the epidemic of the locksmith scammers, aka Locksmith mafia, aka Locksmith Gypsies, aka Fraud smiths, or whatever else your state may categorize them under."

The scammers purchase hundreds of phone numbers in a single local area, often buying the numbers from the main local phone provider through the scammer's own phone companies, Gage writes.

"When these numbers are advertised, it is not uncommon to find a false address and a false business name attached to them. This is done to give the customer a nice warm feeling that they are calling a local company that may be close to them," he writes. No business licenses.

A O A Locksmith, A 01 Locksmith and Absolute Locksmith do not have city of Tucson business licenses. These three companies share addresses and telephone numbers with each other and with several other companies listed in the new phone book.

The companies would definitely need licenses to do business within the city limits, said Beverly Moe, financial services supervisor in the city licensing section. Even if they provide only a service and don't sell anything for which they would collect sales tax, they would still need a non-tax license, she said.
By contrast, Al's Locksmith, AAA Lock and Key and A&Z Safe Lock and Key — three of Tucson's established locksmiths with names found in the same part of the phone listings — all have business licenses.

A O A, A 01 and Absolute are all registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission as "doing business as" names for an organization called Complete Services LLC, based in Tempe. Daniel Montalvo, who is listed as the company's statutory agent on commission paperwork filed in January 2006, said he's an accountant who set up the corporation and did one year's tax returns for it, but he said he hasn't done anything since then for the company.

A phone book listing yielded a phone number that is not in service for Yigal Lampert, who is listed on corporate paperwork as a corporation member and whose address is the same as the corporate address. Calls Friday to two phone numbers listed for the Complete Services companies themselves routed into the same call center. One operator said the company management doesn't like to talk to reporters, and the second operator said the managers would be gone all day.

That operator also was unsure what phone number he had answered because the company has many numbers, he said. Neither person gave his name, each saying he just answers the phone. Wouldn't give full name.

Later Friday a man who said he is a manager for Complete Services called but would not give his full name. He said it has nothing to do with the company and that for personal privacy reasons he does not want his name in the paper.

He said the company is based in Phoenix and began servicing the Tucson area about a month ago. When questioned about the nonexistent addresses, he said the addresses are listed only to show callers that the company provides service in those areas and it is not intended for customers to go to the company locations.

He said the company now has one contractor who does the locksmith work and that there were problems with a previous contractor until about two weeks ago, when that person was replaced. But that story doesn't jibe with what local locksmiths are seeing and hearing. Jon L. Hoyt, owner of AAA Lock and Key, is feeling particularly victimized because so many of the phone book listings are similar in name to his own company, he said.

And every day, Hoyt said, he gets calls from people who are upset with locksmiths supposedly from his company, but once he gets a vehicle description or license plate number, he finds that it wasn't one of his people after all. He's seen a "drastic dip" in service calls in the time since the new phone book was issued, he said.

"There's no scruples and there's no integrity," he said.

The locksmiths who met last week are gathering again this week and hope to arm themselves with enough information to get the Arizona attorney general to investigate, Ashler said.

"All we can do is make as much noise as possible," he said.