South Australians are being warned about scams involving people posing as locksmiths, costing unsuspecting customers millions of dollars each year.
These rogue locksmiths often have no training and use sophisticated tactics to target people in vulnerable situations, such as being locked out of their home.
Consumer and Business Services (CBS) has received dozens of reports from consumers who have been misled, overcharged and, in some cases, intimidated.
What we're seeing
Consumers report being quoted a low fee - often between $30 and $120 - only to be charged hundreds or even thousands of dollars once the work is done. In some cases, locks and doors have been unnecessarily damaged, and customers have faced pressure or threats to pay inflated invoices.
Rogue locksmith scammers spend significant amounts on Google ads and create convincing websites designed to appear local and legitimate.
Common warning signs
- Websites advertising 24/7 or emergency locksmith services with no clear local address
- Refusing to supply a quote or invoice
- Generic websites with no “About” section or verifiable business details
- Prices that seem unusually low upfront
- Poor workmanship or unnecessary damage to locks or doors
- Final invoices significantly higher than the original quote
Protect yourself
- Plan ahead: find a reputable locksmith now and save their details in your phone
- Check the website – does it clearly show where the business is located?
- Get 3 detailed quotes upfront, including call-out fees, after-hours charges and any additional costs
- Trust your instincts, if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t
CBS is taking action
CBS is actively investigating complaints and has identified potential breaches of Australian Consumer Law, including misleading pricing, false representations and unconscionable conduct.
We're here to help
If you believe you’ve been misled or treated unfairly, CBS can provide information, support and pathways for lodging a complaint.
No one should feel unsafe or pressured in their own home. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek help.
