Whether you’re heading out for ice cream, want to find a tasty location to eat lunch, or want to buy a new book, you’ll probably turn to Google to help you find the best place, as well as the business nearest to you. In fact, Google has become such an integral part of our lives that for most people, typing something into Google’s search engine is second nature. And once a search is conducted, most people just choose one of the first companies to appear and the top of the list without thinking twice.
Unfortunately, too many companies use fraudulent tactics to advertise, and many companies’ services aren’t nearly what they claim to be. The same is true for locksmiths in the Dallas area; if you’re looking for a locksmith and type in “locksmith Dallas” into Google, not all of the local listings that pop up will be reputable. Here’s how to identify spam Google local listings, and protect yourself from locksmith bamboozlers.
No Address
One way to spot a scamming locksmith company is a lack of physical address on their website or ad. In fact, even if you type in “Dallas” as your location, it’s likely that dozens—if not hundreds—of the results that pop-up won’t be for Dallas-based companies at all. If you can’t find a legitimate address for the locksmith company, then it’s likely the locksmith business is a scam. Additionally, keep an eye out for non-local numbers. If you’re trying to call a Dallas area code, any toll-free numbers, like 888, 800,844, etc. may be scams.
Listed as #1
Another easy way to identify fraudulent locksmiths is if they’re listed as very first on a search results page, or at the far right of the Google page, and have the word “Ad” next to their name in a small yellow box. These companies are companies that have paid for their high ranking spot. While some locksmith companies will get there organically, many scammers will pay hundreds of dollars to be listed as number one on a Google search results page. Many locksmiths who do advertise are legitimate, but you need to fact check these and not assume that the top position is a mark of credibility.
No Reviews or Manipulated Reviews
A Google Local listing is relatively easy to create, which is why spammers/scammers take advantage of these listings. Google will eventually identify the listing as fraudulent, but then the scammers will launch a new listing. What is not easy to generate are authentic reviews. Check out the reviews for specifics to a job and watch for language that is vague. Check for the location of the reviewer as well. If a listing has no reviews then it is likely a new listing and one that is not in your best interests to call.
Unbelievable Promises
Ads for fraudulent locksmith companies are often complete with unbelievable promises. Keep an eye out for the following when looking at Google local listings
- Any mention of discounts or special offers that seem like a “steal”
- Promises of quick arrival (10 to 15 minutes); and
- Any guarantees of a price under $40.
Remember, if an ad looks too good to be true, then it probably is.
How to Protect Yourself from Scams
When using Google to find a Dallas locksmith, make sure to check companies’ addresses and phone numbers, where they’re listed on Google’s ranking, and be savvy about unbelievable promises. To avoid a problem altogether, let the team at A-1 Locksmith help you with all your commercial and residential locksmith needs. With over 60 years’ experience, we’re ready to put our expertise to work immediately. Don’t hesitate to validate our claims as being the best locksmith by reviewing our online testimonials.
