Locksmith Scams on the Rise

Thames Locks has noticed a worrying increase in calls from customers who have been misled, intimidated, or financially exploited by scam locksmiths operating throughout the area. Whilst most locksmiths offer transparent pricing, there is a growing number of untrained individuals posing as professionals and they are causing real harm to people who are already in vulnerable situations.

A Real Customer Story: A £180 Quote That Became £972

A customer and her friend found themselves locked out of a newly purchased flat. After trying neighbours with no luck, they turned to an online “24/7 locksmith” they found via a quick search. The locksmith arrived within the hour and claimed that drilling the lock and installing a new one was the only option.

The quote provided on the doorstep was £180 + VAT.

By the time the job was completed, the final bill totalled £972.

The customer felt pressured to pay, both women were alone, and the locksmith was physically imposing and insistent. He demanded an immediate bank transfer, promised an invoice later, and left as soon as the money was sent. No invoice ever arrived. Attempts to reach the company were met with vague excuses and no resolution. The case is now being investigated by the customer’s bank as a suspected scam.

Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Thames Locks has been contacted multiple times by residents facing similar situations: unexpected charges, aggressive behaviour, poor workmanship, or being left without proper paperwork or recourse.

How Rogue Locksmiths Operate

Based on the cases Thames Locks has reviewed, rogue operators commonly use the following tactics:

1. The “£49 Call-Out” Bait-and-Switch

They advertise extremely low prices online, only to massively inflate costs once they arrive. A job quoted at £49 or £99 can suddenly become £500, £800 or more.

2. No Training, No Insurance, No Accountability

Many are not genuine locksmiths. They purchase tools online, have no formal training, and carry no insurance leaving customers at risk.

3. High-Pressure, Intimidating Behaviour

Customers often describe feeling unsafe, rushed or unable to challenge the final price.

4. No Company Details and No Invoice

Payment is demanded by bank transfer, and the customer receives no address, invoice, or record of the work carried out.

5. Call Centres Instead of Local Tradespeople

Most scam locksmith numbers route to anonymous call centres. They cannot tell you who will be attending, their experience, or their credentials.

How to Protect Yourself: Advice from Thames Locks

At Thames Locks, we urge customers to take the following steps when choosing a locksmith:

1. Look for a Genuine Local Locksmith

A reputable locksmith will list a real local address and answer their own phone — not a call centre.

2. Ask for Clear Pricing Up Front

You should be given a realistic, transparent estimate before the locksmith arrives. A professional will never refuse to discuss pricing.

3. Ask About Experience and Insurance

A legitimate locksmith will be happy to explain their background, share previous work, and confirm they are insured.

4. Request an Invoice Before Paying

Never pay by bank transfer without written documentation. A professional locksmith will always provide a full breakdown of costs.

5. Trust Your Instincts

If someone seems evasive, aggressive, or unable to justify their prices, do not proceed.


What to Do if You’ve Been Overcharged or Threatened

If you believe you’ve been targeted by a locksmith scam, Thames Locks recommends:
• Contacting your bank immediately if you paid by transfer or card
• Reporting the business to Trading Standards
• Collecting any evidence (screenshots, texts, phone numbers, photos)
• Leaving an honest review to warn others

You should never feel embarrassed, scam locksmiths deliberately prey on stressful and urgent situations. Many people have been caught out, especially during late night emergencies or when feeling unsafe.

As a local, experienced locksmith service, Thames Locks is committed to transparency, fair pricing, and professional workmanship. We believe no customer should ever feel intimidated, pressured, or misled, especially at a moment when they are simply trying to regain access to their home.

If you ever need help or advice, even if you simply want a second opinion, Thames Locks is here to support you.