Avoiding The Scammers With These Easy Tips
El Paso has its fair share of locksmiths. There are some like Pop-A-Lock, who are reputable, honest, and hardworking people. Then there are the others. The scammers. These people aren’t in the locksmith business for safety, or customer satisfaction, or because they want to provide a great service to their community. They are in the business for one reason only, to steal your money. Luckily, companies like Pop-A-Lock take an active stance in fighting against these companies.
Some companies will offer services in ads for $15. Allow us to point something out. There is NO SUCH THING as a $15 locksmith. Any company that says they will unlock your vehicle for that price is lying. We hear stories from around the locksmith grapevine and from customers that a person will call and ask for the $15 locksmith. The person on the phone will quote that price and send their technician. He will get there and do the work and tell you that the cost is $150 or more. He will say that the $15 quote was just their “service fee” – what they charge to come out to your location. The charge for the actual work is $150 or more. A complete scam.
Here are some ways to avoid this kind of scam.
- Before you ever need a locksmith, find one that is reputable and well-established in your area. Save their number in your phone. Pop-A-Lock of El Paso’s number is 915 533-5625 (LOCK).
- Ask for a quote from the technician before he begins working. Don’t let him start the job until you know what you’re going to have to pay. Don’t let yourself be intimidated. If it’s too high, you don’t have to let him do the work. You can ask him to leave.
- A marked vehicle is a good sign. If the technician’s vehicle is not marked with an actual company name (not just a magnet that says “Locksmith”) then that could indicate that they are not trustworthy.
It can be stressful to be in a lockout situation. But stay calm and you can make sure you don’t get taken advantage of. We encourage you to call Pop-A-Lock of El Paso. Stay safe.
