Exposing emergency locksmiths

NBC Special Report - An NBC hidden camera investigation exposed emergency locksmiths preying on customers, charging outrageous fees, even using intimidation.

Reporter Jeff Rossen unlocks the shady truth behind some of these emergency locksmiths who grab customers with catchy web ads promising professional service at a great price. Watch the video on this page to see a sample of what the investigation uncovered. Click here to view the full TODAY show report.

10 On Your Side looked into the practices of locksmiths in Virginia where, according to the state, registration is required.

Locksmiths are supposed to go through background checks, fingerprinting and educational training, but that doesn't always happen.

Scott Brittle is a locksmith who plays by the rules and it costs him plenty. He pays hundreds of dollars every two years to get licensed and said those working without a license go unpunished.

"I had a customer yesterday that called me and I said,'Well if you're calling around getting pricing you're probably going to find one cheaper one, but you'll need to ask if they're licensed' and she said, 'I don't care if they're licensed as long as they're cheaper,'" Brittle said.

Brittle believes most people are unaware that the state is trying to protect them.

Here's what you need to know. Locksmiths are licensed by the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

Legitimate locksmiths should carry a card displaying an ID number. Ask to see it before they start to work.

Brittle also drives a van with his company name displayed on it. Be wary of locksmiths who arrive in unmarked cars.

Another piece of advice, never pay for the job upfront. And don't choose a company based on a random advertisement online or in the phone book. Also, check out perspective locksmiths on the Better Business Bureau's website or ask friend's for a reference.

Virginia has had a law in place since October 2008 to protect consumers.

Virginia code defines a locksmith as "any individual that performs locksmith services, or advertises or represents to the general public that the individual is a locksmith even if the specific term locksmith is substituted with any other term by which a reasonable person could construe that the individual possesses special skills relating to locks or locking devices, including use of the words lock technician, lockman, safe technician, safeman, boxman, unlocking technician, lock installer, lock opener, physical security technician or similar descriptions."

10 On Your Side called the DCJS and the Attorney General's office to ask about whether the state will crack down on unlicensed locksmiths. The Attorney General's office said to speak with the DCJS and that office did not return WAVY.com's calls.