Was I Ripped Off By A Locksmith?

Melbourne woman is upset that she was scammed by a locksmith “Got locked in my room. My partner called the first Google search – ahh! They came and said $400-ish then the bill went to a whopping $2009. After complaining it went down to $1400. Just doesn’t make sense… Absolute joke for a Bunnings lock that cost $22 and they charged $250.”

screenshot of a complaint about a Melbourne Locksmith

Stories like this are all too familiar, especially in Melbourne. This was a genuin review we found online (but we won’t say where, or who the company was).

Whether it is a simple lockout or a replacement job, knowing how to spot the warning signs of a potential rip-off could save you hundreds, even thousands.

We’re going to unpack some common traps, reveal how to identify trustworthy locksmiths, and share the red flags that every Melbourne resident should be aware of, so you do not end up on the wrong end of an inflated invoice.

The Most Common Locksmith Scams in Melbourne

Locksmith scams are becoming increasingly common across Melbourne, particularly in high-stress situations where customers are locked out and vulnerable. Here are the most frequently reported tactics:

  1. Bait-and-Switch Pricing

This is one of the most widely reported scams. It typically starts with an appealing call-out ad, such as “from $50” or “$60 fixed fee,” showing up in Google search results. But once the locksmith arrives on-site, the story changes quickly.

Customers often report bills escalating to $800–$2,000 for simple lockouts. The initial call-out fee is treated as a base charge only, with vague extras for labour, “difficult access”, or “specialist parts” added without prior agreement.

👉 Example case: Our screenshot from above, where the customer was quoted $400 and the invoiced figure was >$2000.

2. Inflated Hardware Costs
3. Unnecessary Drilling or Lock Replacement
4. Fake Urgency or Insurance Scare Tactics
Some unethical locksmiths use psychological pressure to drive up the invoice:

  • “This lock isn’t insurance-compliant; you have to change it now.”
  • “If we don’t replace this, your home will be at risk.”
  • “This type of door is easy to break into — you need a $500 high-security lock.”
These tactics prey on fear and often lead customers to agree to unnecessary upgrades or emergency pricing without time to assess options or verify the information.
Melbourne woman is upset that she was scammed by a locksmith

Real Cost Expectations: What Should You Actually Pay?

We have a helpful post here on how much you can expect to pay a Melbourne locksmith.

You’ll need to take a look at your specific requirements, plus the day – for example, if it’s a weekend, you might have to pay inflated rates. So, we can’t give you a one-size-fits-all answer, but we won’t mask our prices.

A reminder: How Much Does a Locksmith Cost in Melbourne?

Consider these prices when you look at your final invoice. Are they similar, or way off?

Red Flags You’ve Been (or Are About to Be) Ripped Off

  • Vague or shifting quotes
  • Pressure to pay cash or no receipt offered
  • No ABN or multiple ABNs under different names
  • Technician refusing to identify themselves
  • No fixed price before work starts

 Why “First Google Result” Can Be a Risky Choice

When you are locked out of your home or car in a stressful moment, it is tempting to click the first locksmith result on Google, especially if it promises fast, cheap help. But this is where many Melbourne residents get caught out.

How Paid Ads Listings Can Mislead Users

The top listings on Google are often paid advertisements, not always local businesses. Sometimes they’re run by vague brand names like “Quick Locksmith Melbourne”. These names sometimes:
  • Do not represent a real Melbourne-based company
  • Are registered under multiple ABNs to avoid scrutiny
  • Use stock photos and fake reviews to appear credible
Once you call, you are routed to a central operator who dispatches whoever is available, often unqualified subcontractors with no connection to the advertised business.
In practice, this means:
  • You have no control over who turns up
  • There is no price transparency
  • If something goes wrong, there is no real business entity to follow up with

Melbourne-based customers have reported drastic price differences, fake credentials, and invoices from companies they never contacted directly.

At Vic-Locks, we are a locally-based Melbourne locksmith with no subcontractors.
keys hanging from a door

What to Do if You’ve Already Been Ripped Off

If you suspect you have been overcharged, misled, or taken advantage of by a locksmith in Melbourne, there are several steps you can take to dispute the charges and help prevent it from happening to others.

1. Contact Customer Affairs Victoria

Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) can assist with disputes involving misleading pricing, unconscionable conduct, or poor service. While they do not offer refunds, they can mediate and issue warnings or compliance actions against dodgy traders. See more.

2. Request a Chargeback via Your Bank or Card Provider

If you paid by credit card or debit card and believe you were misled, overcharged, or did not receive what was promised, you may be able to request a chargeback through your bank. This is often the most effective remedy, especially if the business becomes uncontactable.

3. Report via ABN or Lodge a Complaint with the ACCC

If the business is operating under a questionable or multiple ABNs, you can:
  • Search the ABN at abr.business.gov.au
  • Report misleading or dishonest conduct via the ACCC

4. Leave Public Reviews to Warn Others

Your review can help others avoid the same trap. Post on:
  • Google Maps (especially under the business location)
  • ProductReview.com.au

Choosing a Reputable Locksmith in Melbourne

  • Local, well-reviewed providers with fixed quotes
  • Membership with Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA)
  • Vans with branding and technicians who carry ID

If you are reading this after being stung by an overpriced or dishonest locksmith, we are genuinely sorry you had to experience that. It is frustrating, stressful, and often feels like there is little you can do in the moment, especially when you’re locked out and under pressure.

Unfortunately, Melbourne is seeing an increase in unregulated operators using deceptive tactics to take advantage of vulnerable situations. But with the right information and a few minutes of due diligence, you can avoid the most common traps, make informed choices, and protect your home and your wallet.

If you believe you have already been ripped off, take the steps outlined above to dispute the charge, report the operator, and share your experience publicly.

And if you are ever unsure, reach out to a trusted local locksmith with transparent pricing, proper business credentials, and a reputation built on trust.

At VicLocks, we stand by our work, our people, and our pricing. If you need help or advice, we are happy to assist. Contact us here.