Latest news with #MasterLocksmithsAssociation
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Police issue important advice over 'lock snapping' burglaries
Police have given out advice on how to prevent "lock snapping" burglaries. Certain door locks, known as "euro-cylinder locks" are vulnerable to "lock snapping". The technique allows thieves to exploit the weak centre of the lock cylinder to break it in half, and gain access to your property. Manufacturers have produce "snap-proof" cylinders and you can check if you have them by looking at the end of the cylinder. Officers recommend upgrading the locks on your external doors to an anti-snap cylinder with a three-star rating under TS 007 and/or the sold secure diamond standard. Officers recommend upgrading your locks to an 'anti-snap' cylinder (Image: GMP) Door handles should also be replaced with handles with a two-star rating under TS 007 - this will also protect against blow torch burglaries. They have said to use a reputable lock replacement company, preferably with Master Locksmiths Association accreditation. You can visit for more information. Fitting sash jammers to your doors could also prevent burglaries - but officers warned to check it won't invalidate any warranty on an existing door. Finally - officers have recommended fitting additional locks on patio and French doors for an added layer of security. Police said that the cost of a new cylinder is not very expensive and they can be installed with basic DIY skills or - if you aren't confident - by a locksmith. Have a story? Get in touch at They have warned that it's important that the cylinder is correctly fitted and the correct size for the thickness of the door. Officers have also warned that your car could be a target - and recommended using a sold secure standard steering wheel lock. They said this will provide a visual deterrent and make it harder for criminals to drive your car away. Officers said to make sure that your lock is properly installed (Image: GMP) READ MORE: Police charge man with fraud offences at Bolton Council READ MORE: Bolton man set for trial after missing woman found dead READ MORE: Man bashed friend of a friend with a brick in drunk attack You can access GMP's services online at In the case of an emergency only call 999, and for less urgent matters call 101. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at
The Guardian
11-02-2025
- The Guardian
It seems to be open house for locksmiths' fraud
A key snapped in the lock as my son and his young babysitter tried to open my front door. The babysitter searched online and called a locksmith quoting a £49 call-out charge. The locksmith claimed the key could not be extracted and insisted the entire locking mechanism had failed and would need to be repaired at his workshop, at a cost of around £400. He later returned with a mate to refit the mechanism, and presented a bill of £1,406. The two refused to leave until it had been paid. Trustpilot reviews, dating back 18 months, report the same thing, ie claiming the mechanism had failed. EA, London This was intimidating for a young woman and a child. Locksmith fraud is on the rise – figures from the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) show a 20% increase over 12 months last year. It's unsurprising the racket is appealing to fraudsters. Anyone can set up as a locksmith without training or regulation, the job allows access to a householder's keys, and they can refuse people entry to their own home until they've paid up. Most reputable locksmiths do not charge call-out fees, according to the MLA, and the average hourly charge for an emergency is around £80 to £100 depending on the time of day. To avoid being scammed, beware of cheap advertised prices lower than £60, or vagueness about costs. It's a red flag if a locksmith starts by drilling the lock. This should be a last resort and is always expensive. Make sure the trader has the MLA logo, which vets and certifies members and has information on scams. The bill was paid by your babysitter's mother and you refunded her. Despite evidence of a scam, her bank has refused to refund her under the Consumer Credit Act and I suggest she appeal to the Financial Ombudsman Service. Email Include an address and phone number. Submission and publication are subject to our terms and conditions
