Over 50% of all burglars gain access to your home through your front or back door, making them the most susceptible areas of your house. It is important for you, as a homeowner, and for us as your locksmith, to make sure your home is safe and secure by installing and maintaining your locks. Especially living in a bigger city, like Tampa Bay.

Burglars can tamper with your locks in several ways.

Most locks used in residential households are not top-of-the-line secure locks. There are many different ways that burglars will attempt to open your doors. Here are the most common:

Snapping

This common tactic involves literally snapping a lock by force. This can be done with a screwdriver, hammer, or other tools. Once broken, the locking mechanism is exposed and your door can be easily opened in just seconds.

Bumping

Burglars file down the “teeth” on a key, making it resemble a small saw. The key in inserted into the lock and bumped with a blunt object until the...

Locksmith Fraud and Scams

With any hired service, consumers need to be aware of scams, fraud, and otherwise unprofessional behavior. Locksmith fraud and scam has become out of control, but there are ways to avoid a disaster by knowing what you are looking for.

At Cheap Lock & Key, we want to help consumers become more aware by sharing some basic guidelines to avoid frauds and scams when hiring a locksmith.

Research and ask questions before hiring!

Locksmith scams typically target homeowners and auto owners who are in emergency situations and need immediate assistance. Before rushing to the first locksmith you see online, stop, think, and determine their legitimacy.

Find a local locksmith.

How do you know your locksmith is truly local? Call and ask them detailed questions. When the locksmith answers the phone they should answer with a specific name. Be wary of general answers and information. Check the reviews. A legitimate locksmith that is local and well known will have...