Locksmith Scams

Contact police if you feel threatened or suspect criminal activity
Call 000 in an emergency
Call 131 444 for non-urgent assistance

To report a scam locksmith

Contact the Office of Fair Trading (OFT)
Phone: 13 QGOV (13 74 68)
Website: OFT Queensland https://www.qld.gov.au/law/fair-trading

Scam Locksmiths in Brisbane

There are scam locksmiths operating in Brisbane, lots of them. Most commonly found advertising their ‘services’ using Google Ads in the evening and over the weekend.

They will commonly lure customers by advertising a very low call-out fee, only for the price to change considerably once they arrive at your home or business. Often, they will not be able to open a lock using gain entry techniques, instead, they will destroy the lock or the door, or both, and demand large sums of money to fit a new lock and/or fix the door.

Common Locksmith Scam Tactics

These fake locksmiths use a range of tactics to scam home and business owners out of large amounts of money during times when they’re generally already stressed. Some common tactics include:

Bait-and-Switch Pricing – Offering low prices over the phone but charging much higher fees in person
Cash-Only Payments – Requesting cash payments to avoid traceability
Intentional Damage – Damaging locks or doors to justify repairs and then adding extra charges
Unnecessary Repairs – Pushing for extra services that aren't needed

How to Spot a Scam Locksmith

Fortunately, there are some signs you can look for to spot a scam locksmith before they cause extensive and unnecessary damage and stress.

Service Vehicles

We all know a tradies ute when we see it. A legitimate locksmith business will generally operate from a clearly identifiable service vehicle. If you book a locksmith to attend your home or business you can expect them to arrive driving an identifiable service vehicle, usually a ute or a van, displaying their business name and security license number. A legitimate locksmith will not be operating out of the boot of a passenger vehicle. A legitimate locksmith needs to carry a lot of tools, and a lot of stock, so they need a dedicated service vehicle. If you book a locksmith, and that locksmith arrives driving something other than a readily identifiable service vehicle, do yourself a favour… call another locksmith.

Uniforms

An employee of a legitimate locksmith business will generally be required to wear a uniform, and that uniform will generally display the logo or branding of the business that employs them. Furthermore, they will be required to wear footwear appropriate to their occupation. If a ‘locksmith’ arrives at your home or business wearing a casual shirt and thongs this person is probably not the person you should be trusting to ensure the security and safety of your home or business.

Advertising

All businesses want to communicate effectively with potential customers. One of the best ways for a business to achieve this is by advertising. Good advertising ‘speaks’ to potential customers using language they understand, thereby communicating effectively.

One of the ways to spot a scam business is to look at the language they use. If they incorrectly spell words, use the wrong punctuation or no punctuation at all, it’s likely a scam. (Think scam email… sorry to tell you the Nigerian king’s nephew is not related to you, and even if he was, he would be able to spell Nigeereea correctly). So pay attention to the little things, they are a good indicator as to whether a business is legitimate or a scam.

A good example of spotting the little things and one of the dead-set giveaways that you’re looking at a scam locksmith website is the use of the term ‘Licensed & Bonded’. This is a term commonly used by trade businesses in the US, referring to trade qualifications and surety bonds. This term is not used in Australia.

As someone who has worked in the Australian security industry for over 20 years I have never heard of a legitimate business that refers to themselves as bonded. Businesses in Australia are not bonded, they are insured. You will never encounter a legitimate business in Australia advertising that they are bonded. If you see a locksmith in Australia using the term Licensed & Bonded you are probably looking at a scam locksmith.

Contact Forms

A contact form on a website is pretty common, and it’s a great way to make initial contact with a locksmith business. But, consider how much information you are being asked to provide. If an online contact form requires you to provide your address, or your credit card details, you are more than likely engaging with a scam locksmith. Legitimate locksmiths will not require this information through an online form, especially not banking details. All payment information will be discussed with you in-person.

Phone Numbers

When booking a locksmith, look at the number you’re about to call. Does it look like a phone number for a local business? Most locally operated locksmith businesses in Brisbane will have a phone number that begins with 07 followed by a 3. If they don’t, consider calling another business that does.

Website

A businesses’ website is the first point of contact for many customers. A professionally developed website owned by a legitimate business should provide detailed information about the business and the services they offer. You should be able to find information detailing who the business is, where the business is located and what the business does. A legitimate businesses’ website is not solely focused on capturing your personal information and credit card details. If you’re looking at a locksmith business webpage, and every click takes you to a contact form, you’re probably looking at a scam locksmith website.

Location

Where is the business located? I mean, where are they really? A Google Maps ‘Drop Pin’ is not necessarily a reliable indicator of where a business is located. Have a look at the Google Maps ‘Street View’. Is there a locksmith business at the address? If not, there’s a good chance the business is a scam. A legitimate locksmith business wants customers to find them easily. Their business address will be clearly displayed and their business front will be visible on Google Maps. If you can’t readily identify where a locksmith business operates from, you probably shouldn’t engage with that business.

Call Centres

When you call a business, any business, they should know who they are and what they do. Often, when a call is made to a scam locksmith the call will connect to a call centre operator, often based overseas. The call centre will most likely be handling enquiries from numerous websites, all of which offer trade services, such as plumbers, electricians, locksmiths, and more, all unlicensed, all scams.

As such, the call centre operator will not necessarily know who they ‘work’ for. They will struggle to identify themselves as a representative of a particular business. They will not be able to provide specifics as to what the business does and they will push you for personal information and credit card details.

Bottom line here, if you do call a scam locksmith it should be quite obvious. Hang up immediately.

Finding a Trustworthy Locksmith

In addition to the above indicators that a locksmith is a scam, there are a few other key things you can do to find a legitimate and trustworthy locksmith in Brisbane, including:

Check for Licensing

Ensure the locksmith is licensed under the Security Providers Act 1993 (SPA). You can verify the license of any legitimate locksmith in Queensland on the Office of Fair Trading’s website: https://www.qld.gov.au/law/fair-trading

All locksmiths working in Qld are legally required to hold a Qld Security Provider license – Class 2 Security Equipment Installer. If they don’t have one they are not licensed to install security equipment in Qld.

You can search by name to find out if an individual holds a security license or you can search by license number to ensure a security license is valid. If the person’s name or number don’t appear on the register, then they are not legitimate.

It’s important to note that a person who holds a security license will not be offended or insulted if asked to produce it. Far from it. A licensed security professional will be happy to provide their license if requested. We are here to make you feel safe and secure in your home or business, and that includes verifying ourselves and our licensing.

In Queensland, an entity that employs security providers must also hold a Security Firm License. Before engaging in any business with a locksmith, ensure that they are licensed.

So, when you next contact a locksmith for support, keep two things in mind:

In Queensland, a locksmith business must be licensed,
AND, the locksmith, the individual, must be licensed.

Confirm both before handing over any personal information or money to protect yourself from scams.

Look for Professional Associations

Choose locksmiths who are members of reputable organisations like the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA). ‘Locksmith’ is not a protected title in Australia, this means that un-trained, un-qualified individuals can call themselves ‘locksmiths’. However, Master Locksmiths are the most reliable, qualified and trustworthy security professionals.

To join the MLAA, locksmith businesses must:

Employ fully trade-qualified locksmiths,
Pass police checks,
Be vetted by their industry peers,
Meet strict requirements for insurance and licences,
Adhere to a Code of Ethics.

Master Locksmiths are able to identify themselves to the public using a Trust Badge and will be able to be found through services such as, Find a Master Locksmith. The MLAA is committed to ensuring the safety and security of communities by separating the fraudulent ‘locksmiths’ from the reliable, Master Locksmiths.

So, when you’re looking for a locksmith, make sure to choose a Master Locksmith, and remember that you can ask them to produce their trust badge to identify themselves.

Read Reviews

One of the commonly overlooked methods for choosing a trusted business is checking the reviews. For trusted locksmiths, their reputation means everything and they will stand behind it.

When searching for a locksmith online, check the reviews on multiple platforms to get a comprehensive view of the locksmith’s reputation. If there are no reviews available, they’re likely a scam. Or, if there are a few negative reviews, take notice and look for another option.

Get Quotes

Get a quote before engaging the services of a locksmith. Better yet, contact several locksmiths to compare prices and services. Avoid those who offer suspiciously low prices or those unwilling to provide a formal quote.

Legitimate locksmiths in Brisbane will be happy to provide you with a clear, upfront quote for their services and explain the cost breakdown for you. By getting multiple quotes, you can get a clear, accurate idea of how much your job should cost and why. Any quotes that land significantly outside the average quoted amount (above or below) are likely scams.

Protect Your Peace of Mind with a Trustworthy Locksmith

By knowing the leading signs of a scam business and taking proactive steps before making a call or giving away your sensitive information, you can help protect yourself and others from falling victim to locksmith scams.

If you need more specific recommendations or have any other questions, feel free to contact us. Our experienced team at Amalgamated Locksmiths have been securing Brisbane for more than two decades and are committed to promoting a safer community for all. Whether you’re locked out or just need advice, we are ready to help.

Automotive Proximity Keys: How They Work, The Benefits and How They Can Be Compromised

Proximity keys are a significant advancement in automotive technology. These innovative devices enable keyless entry and push-button ignition when you’re near your car, without needing to remove the key fob from your pocket or handbag.

This provides convenient, hands-free access to your vehicle, which is especially useful when your hands are full of groceries, shopping bags, or you need to wrangle your child into the car safely in a busy carpark.

However, these keys can be susceptible to relay attacks, compromising your vehicle and leaving it vulnerable to theft. In this article, we will explore how proximity keys work, how they can be compromised and how you can protect yourself and your vehicle from attacks.

How Proximity Keys Work in Automotive Applications

Proximity keys are a generally great innovation provided with most modern cars, that use radio waves to communicate with your vehicle. They work through:

Signal Detection

As you approach your car, the proximity key sends out a radio frequency (RF) signal to the vehicle.

Authentication

The car’s receiver picks up this signal and verifies the unique identifier embedded in the key.

Unlocking Doors

If the signal is recognised, the car automatically unlocks the doors, allowing you to enter without physically using a key.

Starting the Engine

Many modern cars have push-to-start buttons. Once inside, the key’s signal allows you to start the engine with a simple push of a button, eliminating the need to insert and turn a traditional key.

Benefits of Proximity Keys for Drivers

Proximity keys offer a variety of benefits for drivers, including:

Convenience

No more fumbling for keys in your pocket or bag; the car unlocks as you approach.

Security

Proximity keys often come with encrypted signals, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate or intercept the key’s signal.

Added Features

Many systems include additional functionalities like remote start, which allows you to start the car from a distance, perfect for warming it up on a cold winter day, or cooling it down after being parked out under the hot Queensland sun in summer.

Common Features in Automotive Proximity Keys

In addition to these benefits, proximity keys offer a range of features to make accessing your vehicle and driving easier, such as:

Remote Start

Start your vehicle from a distance.

Trunk Release

Open the trunk with the press of a button.

Panic Alarm

Activate an alarm in case of emergencies.

Customisation

Some systems allow for multiple user profiles, adjusting seats, mirrors, and other settings based on which key is detected.

How Proximity Keys Can be Compromised

While proximity keys feature advanced, encrypted signals for security, they can be compromised. Car key relay attacks are a sophisticated method of car theft that exploit keyless entry systems.

How Car Key Relay Attacks Work

Typically, two thieves work together. One stands near the car with a device that can pick up the signal from the key fob, while the other stands near the location of the key fob with a device that amplifies and relays the signal to the car.

The device near to the key fob intercepts the signal from the key fob, even if it’s inside the house, and relays it to the device near to the car, tricking the car into thinking the key fob is nearby at which point the the car unlocks and can be started without the key fob being present. This then allows the person using the relay system to access the vehicle and start it.

Prevention Tips

There are, however, a few things car owners can do to protect their vehicle from these relay attacks and theft. These methods include:

Faraday Bags

Use a Faraday bag or pouch to store your key fob when not in use. These bags block radio signals, preventing thieves from intercepting the key fob's signal.

Signal Blocking

Store your key fob in a steel safe, as it can also block radio signals.

Secure Parking

Park your car in a locked garage or well-lit area to keep it secure and deter thieves.

Security Systems

Invest in additional security measures like steering wheel locks or car alarms to alert you of potential thieves and deter them.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to a car key relay attack. Here at Amalgamated Locksmiths, we are passionate about your security and we’re always happy to discuss automotive proximity keys and how to protect yourself from car theft. Give us a call on 07 5252 7872 or email enquiries@amalgamatedlocksmiths.net for advice.

How to Know You Are Buying The Right Safe

When it comes to protecting the items that matter most, a safe is one of the smartest investments you can make. Whether you need a safe place to store cash, jewellery, sentimental items, or sensitive documents, a safe can provide lasting protection and peace of mind. From fire protections to theft, these secure boxes can protect your items from unexpected events.But, with so many options available, it can be difficult to know if you’re making the right choice. In this guide, we will explore all the factors that you need to consider when purchasing a safe for your home or business to help you make an informed decision.

Choosing the Right Safe

Safes come in a wide range of sizes, locking types, and with various features all offering differing levels of protection. When purchasing a safe, you need to consider several factors to ensure you choose the right one for your needs, including:

Home vs. Office

The safe you need to secure personal belongings will be different from the safe needed to secure sensitive business assets and documents. A home safe will offer reliable protection, however, a commercial safe will generally need a higher security rating. Therefore, the first thing you need to consider is what you need the safe to secure.

Fireproof

Some safes are specifically designed to withstand fire, while others are focused on preventing theft. Determine which feature is more critical for your needs. A fireproof safe may be essential for commercial premises that have a high fire risk, such as food services with ovens, stoves, or gas appliances. Whereas, an office building or homeowner may not need a safe with such a high fire rating. When considering purchasing a safe, check the fire rating. This indicates how long it can protect its contents from fire. The most common ratings include 30 minutes, 1 hour, and 2 hours. Higher ratings provide better protection, so it’s important to consider your premise, protection needs and fire risk before making a purchase.

Size and Capacity

The next factor you need to consider is the size. Safes are available in a wide range of sizes, ranging from small home safes, generally intended for jewellery all the way up to large safes to protect larger business assets. They also come in a range of capacity-ratings, ranging from as little as 54kg all the way up to 581kg. When choosing your safe, consider what you plan to store in it to ensure the safe has enough space and weight capacity.

Locking Mechanism

Safes also come with a variety of different locking mechanisms to provide different levels of security and accessibility features. The most common locking mechanisms include:

Electronic Lock – Offers quick access and easy reprogramming, but it requires batteries.
Biometric Lock – Uses fingerprint recognition for high security and quick access.
Combination Lock – Traditional and reliable, though it may take longer to open.
Key Lock – Simple and effective, but keys can be lost or duplicated.

Water Resistance

As with fire ratings, some safes also offer water resistance to protect contents from flood damage. This feature can be particularly important if you live in an area prone to flooding, offering valuable protection for your assets or valuables when disaster strikes.

Construction and Materials

Another factor to consider is the material that the safe is constructed from. Different materials offer different levels of protection against damage and forced entry. Look for safes made from heavy-duty steel and with solid construction. The thicker the walls and door, the better protection for your items.

Mounting Options

You also need to think about your available physical space where the safe will be installed and how it will be mounted to make sure it will fit comfortably and can be secured properly. Safes are generally either wall mounted or stand-alone on the floor. Consider your security needs and space availability to ensure the safe you choose has mounting options if this is important to you. It’s also important to note that both wall and floor safes can be bolted down for added security.

Certifications

One of the most important factors to think about when buying a safe is the certification. To ensure full security and peace of mind you want to look for safes that have been certified by reputable organisations for security and fire resistance, such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek). Safes that are not certified will likely offer less security when you need it, leaving your valuables vulnerable to damage or theft.

Insurance Considerations

Many insurance providers recognise the added security offered by safes and may offer lower premiums for homes and businesses that have certified safes. For this reason, we recommend consulting with your insurance provider to see if this applies to you. This will not only protect your belongings, but may also offer a powerful cost-saving measure in the long-term.

Budget

Prices for safes can vary widely, so it’s important to keep your budget in mind when planning a purchase. It’s also important to note that a higher-quality safe will generally have a higher upfront price tag, however, this often translates to a higher level of protection and may be worth the added cost if you can swing it. Choosing the right safe at the right price will depend on your security needs and budget.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

One of the best ways to judge the quality and reliability of a safe is to read what others have said about it. Research customer reviews and ratings to learn about the experiences of other users. Real user feedback can provide an accurate insight into the reliability and effectiveness of the safe. Pay particular attention to any comments that mention the durability, lock quality, ease of access, and customer service. This information can help you make an informed decision and select a safe that meets your expectations and security needs.

Trusted Protection for Your Valuables

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you select a safe that meets your specific needs and provides the security and protection you require.

If you have any specific items you need to protect, contact Amalgamated Locksmiths on 07 3252 7872 or enquiries@amalgamatedlocksmiths.net and we’ll be happy to provide more tailored advice to help you make the right choice.

Unlocking the Future: The Rise of Smart Locks

In the ever-evolving landscape of home security, smart locks have emerged as a game-changer, utilising revolutionary technology, transforming the way we secure our homes.

No longer confined to the realm of traditional keys and locks, Smart Locks are innovative devices, offering a blend of convenience, security, and cutting-edge technology that redefines access control.

But what exactly are Smart Locks, and why should you consider upgrading to one? Let’s delve into the world of Smart Locks and explore their benefits and features.

What are Smart Locks?

Smart locks are electronic locking systems that allow you to lock and unlock your door without the need for a traditional key. They can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps, voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, and even through biometric recognition, such as fingerprints. These devices are designed to integrate seamlessly with your home’s security system, offering a modern solution to traditional lock-and-key mechanisms.

Convenience and Accessibility

Imagine never having to fumble for your keys again. With Smart Locks, you can unlock your door with a tap on your smartphone or a voice command. Forgot your phone? Many smart locks also offer keypads for entry codes or support traditional key access as a backup.

Enhanced Security

Smart Locks often come with advanced security features such as two-factor authentication, real-time alerts, and activity logs. You can know exactly who enters and exits your home and at what times, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Remote Control

Whether you're at the office or on holiday, you can lock and unlock your door from anywhere in the world. This feature is especially useful for letting in guests, service personnel, or deliveries when you're not home, while protecting against unauthorised access.

Integration with Smart Home Systems

Smart Locks can be integrated with other smart home devices like security cameras, doorbell cameras, and home automation systems. This creates a cohesive and interconnected security ecosystem that enhances overall home protection.

Customisable Access

Grant temporary access to guests, family members, or service providers with customisable entry codes. You can set specific time frames for when these codes are active, ensuring that only authorised individuals can enter your home.

Popular Smart Lock Features

Smart locks use modern technology and innovative features to enhance your home’s security, such as:

Keyless Entry: Unlock your door using a smartphone app, fingerprint, or voice command.
Temporary Access Codes: Create and manage unique codes for different users.
Automated Locking: Set your door to automatically lock after a certain period.
Activity Logs: Keep track of who enters and exits your home and when.
Real-time Alerts: Receive notifications if someone attempts to tamper with the lock.

Modernise Your Home's Security

Smart locks are more than just a high-tech gadget; they represent a significant advancement in home security and convenience. By integrating smart locks into your home, you can enhance your security, enjoy unparalleled convenience, and stay connected to your home no matter where you are. As technology continues to evolve, smart locks will likely become a standard feature in modern homes, offering a glimpse into the future of home security. So, why not take the first step toward a smarter, more secure home?

At Amalgamated Locksmiths, we can supply and install a range of Smart Locks. Contact us on 07 3252 7872, or enquiries@amalgamatedlocksmiths.net, or drop into our showroom for a live demonstration.