About 250,000 Americans make emergency calls to locksmiths daily, according to Associated Locksmiths of America. The panicky feeling they get once they realize they’ve locked themselves out of their homes or cars may soon be replaced by anger, though, because according to authorities, several companies prey on locked-out consumers. Complaints about locksmiths have increased and include accusations of overcharging, shoddy workmanship, lowball telephone quotes and unnecessary work. View Full Story and Video. 

Don’t be fooled by the fake locksmiths preying on victims in the Atlanta area. Verify your locksmith’s credentials and obtain a firm quote before you hire them. An organization like the Better Business Bureau is a great place to start.