Latest news with #locksmiths
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- 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
CNET
07-07-2025
- CNET
My Easy Guide on How Much Smart Lock Installations Cost, Based on My Many Reviews
While a new smart lock may sound inviting, especially if your current lock isn't working right, you may be wondering about the costs. Sometimes hiring a locksmith can get pricey, but you probably have savings on your mind these days. Top-line smart locks can cost a couple hundred dollars or more, so looking for ways to cut installation costs is common. I've installed so many locks -- and occasionally asked for a locksmith's help -- so I'm well-versed in what to expect. Fortunately, most smart locks currently available for upgrading your home are DIY-friendly, and you can install them with a few measurements and basic tools. But if you prefer not to bother or run into trouble, I've compared costs, done the math and found out just what you can expect to pay. Locksmith fees for a new lock: Cost breakdown A front door lock replacement can be DIY, but if you prefer to have a pro handle everything, we have the numbers. Sinenkiy/Getty Images The world of locksmith pricing can be daunting: Prices may vary a lot by region and locksmiths aren't always clear about what a full service would cost, especially with standardized websites that don't properly reflect fees in your area. Most experienced locksmiths would prefer to give a specific quote for a full lock replacement. But you can learn a lot when fees are broken down into specific charges: A new lock : A traditional front door deadbolt and handle (usually installed together to match) will cost around $50 to $150. Front door bolts tend to be significantly more expensive than locks for other doors because durability and material quality are priorities. Features like a keypad or even smart features raise prices further. Less reputable locksmiths may also inflate the price of a new lock to pad their estimates, so stay watchful. : A traditional front door deadbolt and handle (usually installed together to match) will cost around $50 to $150. Front door bolts tend to be significantly more expensive than locks for other doors because durability and material quality are priorities. Features like a keypad or even smart features raise prices further. Less reputable locksmiths may also inflate the price of a new lock to pad their estimates, so stay watchful. The lock installation : Some locksmiths charge for specific kinds of services, such as between $50 and $100 for a lock replacement. Some charge by the hour, which was around $100 for the national average in 2023. If you have a metal front door (not common) or a metal plate to work around, it will cost extra. : Some locksmiths charge for specific kinds of services, such as between $50 and $100 for a lock replacement. Some charge by the hour, which was around $100 for the national average in 2023. If you have a metal front door (not common) or a metal plate to work around, it will cost extra. Visiting your home : Locksmiths charge an additional fee for driving out to your home. This is usually around $30 within 20 miles or city limits, but can be more for further distances. : Locksmiths charge an additional fee for driving out to your home. This is usually around $30 within 20 miles or city limits, but can be more for further distances. After-hours fee : If no one can be home to greet a locksmith during business hours, they'll probably charge an extra fee for evening, early morning or weekend visits, around $20 to $50. : If no one can be home to greet a locksmith during business hours, they'll probably charge an extra fee for evening, early morning or weekend visits, around $20 to $50. Location: These prices can vary based on your location, too. In areas with a higher cost of living, expect to pay significantly more for home visit services (around $50 extra) than the national average. Bottom line: A new lock installation from a professional should cost around $200 on the lower end and $350 on the higher end. Some popular service pricing sites like Homewyse put it much higher at $475 on average, but my research indicated a more conservative range, particularly if you stay within a locksmith's local service area and hours. Installing a DIY smart lock: Cost breakdown Aqara's smart lock deadbolt replacement looks and works great. Tyler Lacoma/CNET Smart locks are designed to be DIY, meaning you can install them yourself with tools you have at home. They typically come with video tutorials, guides and charts to walk newcomers through the installation process. The high-tech parts of a smart lock are ready to go and don't require much setup beyond installing some batteries and connecting via the app. A screwdriver, a level and preferably a drill are about all you need. In other words, you don't need a locksmith for a smart lock project. That means the only cost to consider is the price of the lock itself. They're more expensive, but are they more expensive than calling out a locksmith for a traditional lock replacement? Here are common examples by brand: Bottom line: Buying a smart lock yourself and installing it tends to save $50 to $100 compared with bringing in a locksmith to do all the work. At the high end of service costs, and with an affordable smart lock, it could save as much as $200. And keep in mind, a lot of these smart locks go on frequent sales, so you can often find them with discounts to save more. What about a smart lock retrofit? August's retrofit locks go over existing deadbolts. Amazon A retrofit is a smart lock that goes over your existing deadbolt to control it with smart features. It's an easier installation that some people prefer if they already like their deadbolt (albeit a bit bulky). One of the most popular examples is the August Wi-Fi lock, which sells for $200. Because it doesn't replace the entire deadbolt, a retrofit is usually less expensive. Expect to pay about $30 to $50 less for a retrofit compared with a completely new smart locks. It's a way to avoid additional expenses when getting smart features. What about going DIY with a traditional lock? To install the Kevo Convert, you'll need to start by removing the interior part of your deadbolt. Ry Crist/CNET There's nothing to stop you from buying a traditional, "dumb" front door lock and installing it yourself -- many homeowners just prefer to have a locksmith take care of all the trouble. The instructions on a classic lock aren't nearly as user-friendly, and you won't get any extra features, but it's easy enough with the right tools and the lowest cost out of all your options, around $30 to $50 for a budget front door deadbolt. Of course, we're fans of getting remote control, autolocking and other important features that a smart lock brings to the table, but if you're looking for the absolute lowest-cost option, this is it. Final note Remember, if something goes wrong in your DIY installation you always have the option to call in a locksmith for some quick help. I had this happen once, when a previous lock's screws were jammed in too tightly and I was in danger of stripping the screws with my own home kit. A locksmith fixed the problem in about 20 seconds. So you do have that option -- it will just add a fee onto the overall smart lock cost. For a complete look at home security choices, see if DIY security systems have lock options that fit your home, take a look at wireless home cameras, and find out how to stop porch pirates.
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Keys Inc. Proposes National Locksmith Licensing Reform Through the "LINC Act"
TUCSON, Ariz., July 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Keys®, the leading software platform built for locksmiths, is taking a proactive step toward national safety and industry modernization with the introduction of the Locksmith Integrity & National Certification Act (LINC Act). This proposed federal legislation would establish a Federal Locksmith License (FLL) — ensuring consistent certification standards, protecting consumers, and enabling licensed professionals to work freely across state lines. Only 13 U.S. states currently require locksmiths to be licensed, and those that do often enforce drastically different rules. Meanwhile, most states have no licensing requirements at all, allowing unvetted individuals to operate without oversight — putting consumers at risk and weakening the integrity of the industry. "We're dealing with a patchwork of laws that are either too restrictive or nonexistent," said Loay Jamal Alyousfi, CEO of Keys Inc. "This leaves the public vulnerable, hinders ethical businesses, and creates avoidable security risks." While government enforcement is inconsistent, Keys® already leads by example. Every locksmith on the Keys App is fully vetted. But the company believes true national safety and trust require a public standard that complements its platform — allowing vetted professionals to operate anywhere with confidence. "We've taken a proactive approach through our technology," Alyousfi said. "But real reform means aligning public policy with secure digital platforms like Keys®. The LINC Act would do just that — unlocking opportunity and trust nationwide." The proposed Federal Locksmith License would allow professionals to legally work across state borders by simply turning on the Keys App — expanding business, removing red tape, and creating nationwide mobility for certified locksmiths. "I spoke with CIA officials during the ALOA Locksmith and Security Expo, and they acknowledged this security gap," Alyousfi added. "They encouraged us to lead the charge. This is about public safety, industry integrity, and economic growth." About Keys Inc. Keys® provides the #1 software platform for locksmiths, offering instant payments, invoicing, AI-powered dispatch, and more — built on trust, compliance, and innovation. Media or legislative inquiries:📧 press@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Keys Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
07-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Keys Inc. Marks a Strong First Half of 2025 with New Features and Industry Growth
TUCSON, Ariz., July 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Keys Inc., the leading all-in-one software platform built specifically for locksmiths, is proud to announce a successful first half of 2025 highlighted by enhanced product offerings, strong industry engagement, and accelerated growth. In May, Keys Inc. participated in the IAAL Auto Lock Expo 2025 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa—a premier event for locksmith professionals. The company gained invaluable feedback from locksmiths nationwide, reaffirming its user-driven approach to software development. One of the requested features, Cash Invoicing, was successfully introduced shortly after the event. This feature complements Keys' existing Digital Payment Method invoicing, providing locksmiths the flexibility to issue branded invoices for cash payments while maintaining a professional look and streamlined payment process. 'We built Keys to elevate locksmiths' success by delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to their unique needs,' said Loay Jamal Alyousfi, Founder of Keys Inc. 'We are constantly improving and investing in the locksmith space to ensure our platform grows alongside the industry's evolving needs.' Keys® is currently developing a QR Code Labeling system to integrate with its inventory management tools, enabling locksmiths to easily track, organize, and manage parts, tools, and keys. This will reduce errors and save valuable time for locksmiths both on the road and in the shop. From real-time payments and branded invoicing to dispatch and inventory control, Keys® continues to evolve based on user feedback, building a platform truly designed for locksmiths. The company remains committed to delivering solutions that enhance operational efficiency and foster business growth. As the second half of 2025 begins, Keys Inc. looks forward to continued innovation, expanded features, and broader adoption within the locksmith industry. Keys® — Built for Locksmiths. Backed by Experience. Driven by Feedback. For more information, visit or contact [email protected]. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Keys Inc.
