Buckhead Atlanta, GA Metro Atlanta Locksmith Scam Spreading across US
When you need a locksmith, you need a person you may trust. In Atlanta, Georgia, you have great choices. Try contacting Scott at G&W Locksmith 770-480-6510 - a multi-generational family business for about 40 years.
You could call DOWNS Locksmiths 404-873-2515 - founded in 1900.
You could call Burt at Sandy Springs Locksmith 404-256-3780. These Scott atcompanies have extensive experience in both residential and commercial work. Just the type of people Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty would recommend. Just the type of folks everyone could trust.
So imagine how surprised Burt was when customers began to call and complain about being quoted one price on the phone and another when the "service man" arrived! Some calls were double even triple what the person had been told! To add insult to injury, many times Sandy Springs Locksmith had to go out and correct the work these impersonators had done.
Apparently, since 2007, these ruthless advantage takers have been rampaging across the US. Consumers would call what appeared to be local companies, promising "15 minute" response and reasonable pricing. NOT TRUE! The responders would arrive much later than 15 minutes and charged anywhere from two to four time the estimate given on the telephone. Time after time, the frauds perpetrated by USA Locksmith and Dependable Lock were traced back to one office, actually located in New York.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), our nation's consumer protection agency, offers a warning about locksmith impersonators. "... some locksmiths advertising in your local telephone book may not be local at all. They may not have professional training. What’s more, some of them may use intimidating tactics and overcharge you." In addition, the FTC offers advice on how to select a locksmith. Following the links in this post will provide extensive information.
The Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) the trade's professional association, offers a map with links to the offices in every state for the state Attorney General where consumers may report fraud. If you or anyone you know has been victimized by these people, go to the map, click on your state and make a report.
Remember - in several states, members of this national disgraceful group have been prosecuted successfully. Don't hesitate to report them!
The video below documents a sting operation conducted in Seattle and followed up in New York to expose these unscrupulous characters.
Have a happy day,
Lynn
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