The Newport Beach Police Department has been notified of suspicious circumstances surrounding locksmith services in the City.
Late last month, a resident search for a local well-known locksmith company on the internet and called a phone number he found in the search results. The call was answered with a generic greeting ("Services") instead of the name of the company the resident expected to contact. The resident proceeded to schedule a service to have the locks changed at his home.
When the workers arrived, they were in an unmarked van and were unable to show proof of their employer (by business card or another means). Due to distractions with remodeling at the resident's home, he allowed the workers to complete the service.
It was later determined that neither the phone number the resident had called, nor the workers who had provided the service, were associated with the local locksmith company that the resident had intended to employ. The resident eventually contacted the correct local locksmith company, who determined that the unidentified workers had installed substandard cylinders devices in the locks at his home. The cylinder's pins were altered in a way that may make it easier for burglars to pick the lock and gain entrance to the residence.
NBPD advises all residents to be aware when scheduling home services. When calling a business, ask the representative to identify their company name and location before providing them with any of your information. You may also ask workers providing services at your home for a business card or other form of verification that they are employed by the company you have intended to hire.
If you have been the victim of a crime, or suspect fraudulent activity, please contact the Police Department at 949-644-3717.
