BBB Warning: Consumers Report Phony Locksmith Company Demanding “Cancellation Fees”
Franklin, TN — Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to use caution when searching online for locksmith services after receiving reports of questionable business practices by a company advertising under the name HNM Locksmith.
A recent consumer shared their experience after contacting the company online for a simple commercial lock repair. The consumer said they entered their name and phone number on the website and were promptly contacted by a woman who promised a technician would call within minutes. After hours of waiting and repeated phone calls, no technician arrived. When the consumer finally canceled the service after a four-hour delay, the company demanded a $69.99 “cancellation fee” — a charge that had not been disclosed anywhere on the website or during the scheduling process.
The consumer refused to pay and reported the company to BBB Scam Tracker, noting concerns that others may have been misled by the same online ad.
“Scammers often pose as local locksmiths, but they’re really call centers that dispatch unlicensed or nonexistent technicians,” said Robyn Householder, President and CEO of Better Business Bureau serving Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky. “They advertise heavily online, sometimes using fake addresses to appear local, and then pressure customers into paying unexpected fees.”
BBB Tips to Avoid Locksmith Scams
- Check for a local address and verify it exists. Many scam listings use fake or shared addresses.
- Search for the company on BBB.org to read reviews and verify accreditation.
- Ask for a written estimate before agreeing to any work.
- Be wary of generic websites or vague business names.
- Never pay in advance for services not yet provided.
If you believe you’ve encountered a locksmith scam, file a report at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Better Business Bureau of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky
25 Century Blvd Suite 101
Nashville, TN 37214
Https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/
