Beware of Scam Locksmiths
in Melbourne
Melbourne has many professional, licensed locksmiths who provide honest and reliable services. Unfortunately, there are also dishonest operators who use misleading online ads to attract customers with unrealistically cheap prices. These scam locksmiths often focus on quick profits rather than genuine service.
One of the biggest warning signs is an extremely low advertised price — often something like $35 or $45 for emergency lockout services. In reality, legitimate locksmith businesses have operating costs such as travel, tools, insurance, licensing, and staff wages. Prices that seem “too good to be true” usually are.
The Phone Enquiry – How the Trap Begins
It usually begins with a weekend call. You’re locked out, anxious, and just want help as soon as possible. You call a company advertising “low-cost locksmith services” and ask the most obvious question: How much will it cost to get in?
Instead of giving a straightforward answer, the person on the other end immediately requests your address and phone number. They dodge talking about the actual price. If you press for details, they typically respond with something vague like “$45 and up.”
On the surface, it sounds cheap and simple. But what they don’t make clear is that this amount usually covers only the call-out, not the full service of opening the door.
Opening the Door
When the technician finally arrives, there’s often no uniform or branded vehicle to suggest a professional service. After a brief look at the lock, they quickly claim it’s a “high-security” lock and must be drilled.
If the customer doesn’t confirm the full price upfront, the shock comes later. If they do ask, the response may be:
“Because I have to drill it, it’s $90.”
What’s not explained is that this usually covers only drilling — meaning the lock is destroyed. The cost to supply and fit a new lock is added afterward.
In some cases, excessive force is used, with drills, chisels, or crowbars causing unnecessary damage to doors and frames — turning a simple lockout into a costly repair.
The Invoice – Where the Real Shock Happens
After drilling out the lock cylinder, replacement becomes unavoidable. In many cases, only a small internal component was damaged — yet instead of replacing that part, the technician installs a completely new, low-grade lock. Often it’s the cheapest option available, chosen to maximise profit rather than quality.
Then comes the invoice. What started as “$45 and up” can suddenly balloon into hundreds of dollars. A typical breakdown might look like this:
- Service Call $25.00
- Afterhours fee $399.00
- Weekend fee $599.00
- Opening of 6-pin cylinder $199.00
- Use of power tools $999.00
- New lock $399.00
- Install lock $99.00
- TOTAL $2719.00
A World Wide Scam
It might sound unbelievable, but situations like this happen frequently — in cities and towns all over the globe.
Many locksmiths operating this way deliberately cause unnecessary damage and replace locks, not because it’s needed, but to charge inflated fees. Often, their work is so poorly done that another professional is called afterward just to fix the problems they created.
This isn’t isolated; it’s a recurring scam that preys on people when they’re most vulnerable — locked out, stressed, and desperate for help. Being aware of these tactics is the first step to avoiding them.
Top 10 Warning Signs of a
Dishonest Locksmith
Protect yourself and your property by recognizing these red flags before hiring a locksmith.
Generic Phone Answer
They answer calls with “Locksmith” or “Emergency Locksmith” and avoid giving a proper company name.
No Transparent Quote
They refuse to provide a clear, fixed price for your job before arriving.
Evasive About Company Details
They avoid sharing their official business name or use a vague, generic name.
No ABN or Licensing
Legitimate locksmiths provide an Australian Business Number and license details.
Unbranded Vehicle
Their vehicle lacks company signage, branding, or professional identification.
No Uniform or ID
They arrive without professional attire or identification, reducing accountability.
Absence of Business Card
Legitimate professionals provide a card or official contact details; scammers avoid this.
Destructive First Approach
They immediately suggest drilling or forceful entry instead of trying non-destructive techniques first.
Refuses Official Receipt
Receipts are incomplete, handwritten, or missing company details. Cash-only requests are a warning sign.
Gut Feeling Alert
If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. Scammers often rely on urgency and pressure.
Global Locksmith Scam Alert
Fraudulent locksmith operations are increasing worldwide. Organized groups are using the same tactics across major cities to exploit unsuspecting customers.
Many scams replicate fake websites, generic branding, and extremely low advertised prices in cities such as Melbourne, London, New York, and Toronto. These are part of an international network designed to exploit urgency and trust.
If you’ve been targeted:
- ✅ Report immediately to Victoria Police, Consumer Affairs Victoria, or your state authority.
- ✅ Document evidence: keep invoices, messages, and photos of any damage.
- ✅ Avoid further contact: scammers may offer “discounted repairs” to trap you again.
- ✅ Raise awareness among friends, family, and neighbors to prevent others from falling victim.
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Enquiry
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