The week is going by quickly. I had an opportunity to visit and work with Jay and Pat, the owners of Pop-A-Lock of St. Augustine, Fl. Jay is a veteran Locksmith and Pop-A-Lock so the visit went a little easier than most initial visit.
They have done a great job at spreading the Gospel of Pop-A-Lock already but we did have a chance to visit some great account opportunities. One of the advantages of having a 'high skillset' on the technical side such as Jay has, you can target larger and more complex accounts.
Pay is doing a great job as well! She is a full blown tech and is popping locks with the best of them now.
St. Augustine is more accurately described as 'St. Johns'. It is a sprawling area with a lot of history. It is not everyday that I get to pass by the Fountain of Youth!
I always joke with my wife, "Thanks to Pop-A-Lock I've gotten to visit so many cities and get to drive by such famous landmarks!"
Seeing the city through the eyes of a Pop-A-Lock is such a different perspective than a 'tourist visit'. Our customers come from literally every area of town, every income bracket and every demographic.
You can learn more about Pop-A-Lock of St. Augustine at www.popalockofstaugustine.com
PS. They have one of the most memorable local phone numbers I've ever seen: 904-940-0000
PPS. I'd like to thank Pat and Jay for such a hospitable and productive visit!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time Management within the Pop-A-Lock Box
GTD: Time Management within the Pop-A-Lock Box
In a recent exchange with a franchisee, they asked me ‘How do you keep up with all this stuff?’ I gave them a quick history on my background and the simple philosophy that I have adopted. Additionally, I have some pretty neat tools that I’ve picked up that help me keep track of things. As a disclaimer, I get less done than what I would like, I feel some sense of guilt nearly all the time for not ‘doing’ enough ; be that at Pop-A-Lock, at home or with my family. I always feel as though each day is my last. I’ve felt this way since I was about 15 years old and don’t really know why, I had no significant event that I can remember…the feeling just ‘popped’ up on me one day and provides some sort of ‘fundamental drive’ to most of my actions and interests.
So the base ingredient of the ‘system’ is a day to day near death experience type of motivation to ‘do’ stuff.
Next, Interwoven into that is a strong commitment to not letting down Carl, Steve, Don, Jim Fetherman, Paul Sewall, Sam Landers or any of the other franchisees that play such an important part in my life. In the back of my mind I hear a constant mantra…If you don’t help these people in your own particular way, who else will?
The System: I give full credit David Allen and his book GTD (not a self help book) for systematizing many of the process below. I (and probably you) have hodgepodged together many of the same concepts own my own from other sources such as Officer Candidate School and super high intensity training at the University of ‘Trial and Error’.
Rule 1: Collect every thought, every input, every request, every suggestion, every complaint and every piece of feedback into a ‘trusted system’. For me this is surprisingly a very non-technological device; a small hardcover notebook. The purpose of the notebook is to get everything OUT of my head because if I don’t I start committing items to memory through repetition and review. This mental effort of reviewing ‘what’s next’ and ‘don’t forget’ items is very disruptive to any productive time I have. By getting it out of my head, I can step back look at the items and work on them in a more logical manner. I don’t go through a lot of ‘preparation’ or use a special planner with prioritizing letters etc. Those things have always seemed to waste more time. On the electronic side, I do use Outlook to create emails to myself as described in more context later.
The second step is determining if something is ‘Actionable’, in other words is the stimuli that I am getting require some physical action in space. If not I do one of three things with it:
-I delete it, throw it away or otherwise decide that there is nothing to be done with it. The phrase ‘get into empty’ is associated most closely GTD. This goes for your inbox, your calendar, your notebook whatever. If it can be deleted…get rid of it so it doesn’t take up space in your mind. However, I never actually delete anything I just move it to delete and can pull it up at any time later but it is clear of my ‘Mental Ram’ so I can torture myself with other projects and Next Actions.
-I file it away as Reference. Thanks to Google Desktop I do this pretty liberally in the My Documents folder because with Desktop I can find it later by using keywords. Outlook is also very helpful for this as I have one folder that says ‘reference’ that I throw anything that I may need to look at later in it. Google desktop also indexes all Outlook mail.
-Sometimes I’m not sure if an input is actionable or not, for these items I open a new outlook email make a quick note on it then drag it over to my calendar, put it on a ‘recurrence’ reminder for some interval say once a week for certain items, maybe as long as a year for other items. If it is ‘just not that important’ then I will fold the page over in my notebook and every several months I’ll flip through my bent pages in my old notebooks and see what I ‘thought’ was important at the time. The best most powerful aspect of the ‘drag and drop to the calendar’ is that I can ‘Fire and Forget’. Often times when it Pops on my calendar I have some new information or perspective on the issue that will allow me to delete it.
The second ‘rule’ is that if something takes less than 2 minutes to accomplish…I just do it. There are hundreds of things a day that people ‘put off’ because they think they are prioritizing but actually they are just using ‘planning’ as an excuse to procrastinate.
A common challenge to this practice is: If I keep stopping what I am doing to do these little things, then I’ll never get anything done.
There is something to be said about staying focused and ‘on task’ however, there is a little hidden truth here: If you really intend to do both tasks, then there is only one way to ‘waste time’…that is by putting off the 2 minute task. If you continue to ‘revisit’ or have to set up a reminder or ANYTHING except just doing the task…then you have truly wasted time.
This is a lead into the misunderstood term ‘Multi-tasking’, very few people multi-task. I do many true multi-tasking for example: Brushing my teeth, putting on deodorant and watching the morning weather. However, what most people refer to as ‘multi-tasking’ is the ability to quickly and fluidly shift from one task, to another then back the original task without much ‘friction’ or loss of efficiency. For many of us that means, quickly switching from talking to a customer, to looking up a keyblank, to sending in an order, then putting ourselves onsite and taking care of the issues at hand.
A choice: If it takes longer than 2 minutes then I decide if it is a Next Action or a Project. The two aren’t really different except for the ‘scope of work’ involved, however every project has a ‘Next Action’ at the very front of it.
Next Action: Is a physical action that occurs in space and whose description is normally started with a verb: Email, Call, Write, Order, Read, Go to, Schedule flight, make reservation. I avoid what Chris Appelton the San Diego franchisee refers to as ‘Orwellian’ speak, which is characterized by fluffy words like: Coordinate, Plan, Arrange, Review or Foster. You don’t ‘coordinate’ you call someone, you email someone else, you speak to someone in person. This is most closely associated with a ‘things to do list’ however, most people’s ‘things to do list’ is really full of fluffy stuff.
A Project is a multi-step action and I can use my ‘fluffy’ words to describe that but it has to be composed of Next Actions, for example:
Project: Coordinate Baltimore 2009 tow show with Tony
-Write email to tony with suggested agenda
-Call Scott to verify his needs and intentions
And so on.
The concept of ‘Waiting for’ is a status of an specific next action in a project. From the above example of the Tow Show, a ‘waiting for’ is “Waiting for decision by tow show personnel if they are going to allow us to use a room if we aren’t exhibiting. These are the nagging little things that can drive you crazy trying to ‘follow up on’. For me these are the bane of my existence, because I know that most people aren’t carrying on their day to day business the same way that I am and resolving that 2 minute issue will be put off by them for days, weeks or even months before they respond back. However, there is a good way to deal with these issues, for me I drag the email with the substance of the project into my calendar and set a reoccurring reminder on my Outlook so that instead of me nagging myself…I nag the person who I am ‘waiting on’. Often times people come to the realization that you mean business and really need an answer and it is easier for them to address you than to ignore you any longer.
Waiting For usually takes one of two form ‘delegation’ and ‘depending on’. The first one is when you are in some leadership role and have to delegate tasks to others. Whereas the second one is a ‘followership’ role where you are dependent on someone else to do something but they are outside of your sphere of influence. Depending on can range from Waiting on a boss or partner to do something, an outside agency, a skillset provider etc. Sean is a good example of that for me, there are many things that we do that I am ‘depending on’ Sean to accomplish, Royalty Adjustment on 411 is a good example of that type of project for me.
Managing large projects taps into another level of skillset but for the most part the same general rules apply.
Scheduled Review: I look at my stuff constantly in real-time, however I have a pop-up that comes up twice a week during the week and I have a specific time on the weekend that I just go through everything. This usually generates a lot of deleting and crossing out because they were things that were ‘actioned’ already and no longer need my attention. The physical action involves going through my email in-box, going to the last page in current notebook and going through my calendar deleting or changing stuff. When I get through with this I usually rewrite my ‘next actions’, putting at least one ‘next action’ from any current projects and my mind is at ease.
Troop Leading Procedures
Another time tested and battle tested process are the 9 Troop leading procedures. It is a systematic combination of the two old axioms: The Best Plan rendered too late is worthless and the first casualty of any war is the best laid plan. I have always said that these are more ‘descriptive’ than ‘proscriptive’ in that they describe what is ‘supposed to be going on’ however direct application is never perfect…big however If you miss any steps you are likely doing something wrong.
I have encountered many people in many different walks of life and violation of these troop leading procedures appears to be a rampant problem, particularly omission of steps 2 and 3.
1. Receive the Mission: This sounds like a passive step but it is usually the first mistake people make. They don’t actively think about what someone is asking them to do, they misunderstand, they don’t capture the details in a trusted system. I can’t count how many new owners have sat in SFA and not written down a thing they encounter, I know they didn’t retain the material because when I ask basic question at the end they cannot answer them. When you are listening for understanding, it is ok to not take notes but when you are listening to ‘receive the details of a mission’ it’s best to capture those items.
*However, the most important aspect of receiving the mission is the ‘brief back’, this when you state back to whoever you are dealing with what you perceived they just told you. It is surprising how often this prevent some major misunderstanding, however many people don’t do it because they didn’t understand and are trying to cover up for the fact they weren’t paying attention, they are embarrassed to ask clarifying questions or they simply don’t really intend to do anything about it anyway.
2. Make a Tentative Plan: Many people, even ‘seasoned’ operators skip this step. They jump straight into researching and trying to dig up all the details on an issue. In many most of the procrastinators I deal with this is their fatal flaw, they don’t want to commit to a simple course of action early on in the process…because they might be wrong.
3. Give a Warning Order: This is letting the people involved in some process know that ‘change is coming’ that ‘action is soon’, this gives them time to begin processing information and taking actions at their level. If it is a subordinate leader under you, then they should be going straight to Step one of this process.
4. Start Necessary Movement: This is the stage that regardless of what specifics you are doing, you likely need to get in place. For us it is things like exchanging contact information, making sure you have your ‘beans and bullets’, setting up accounts, getting credit card processing going, contacting the phone company to find out what information you will need etc.
5. Conduct a Reconnaissance/Research: This is when you begin your strong due diligence, getting the part numbers, going look at the job site, going to a company webpage to see what they are about, contacting other franchisees, calling SFA for questions and support, going to a meeting, meeting with a realtor, meeting with a dealership employee etc.
6. Complete the Plan: This is when you finalize what your next actions are going to be, create time lines, draw the layout of the building, prepare the final order, get the final feedback from anyone you are consulting with on the project.
7. Issue the Plan: You let everyone know in detail what you is going on, what you are asking them to do, what they can expect, answer their questions.
8. Rehearse the action: GET YOUR BRIEF BACK from your subordinates, subordinate leaders, cohorts, partners or others involved to ensure they know what is going on. Test the projector, email the instructions to yourself to see if the format looks correct, send them to someone else to make sure they can read the attachments, do a mock sales call with a teammate etc.
9. Supervise and Refine the Plan: Make it a point to touch back each person to ensure that things are going as intended, if not identify the problems, seek solutions and refine the plan and keep others abreast of ‘Changes’ (I know these as Frago or fragmentary orders).
In summary, these are just some ‘hacks’ that can help you either get more things done, or far the less motivated…get the same things done with less hassle/problem/stress. Warning: The subtle questions “Is this actionable?” and “What is the Next Action?” become very dominant in your thinking. I know that I have personally ‘put people off’ because they frequently confront me with ‘non-actionable’ input and I don’t tend to play along (for long)…I’m polite, smile and say ‘Ok, all that sounds good, but no real action needed?’ This is a brief back to confirm that what they are talking about is not ‘actionable’ and that no ‘next action’ is required. It can come across a little stiff but probably helps both parties.
Follow Up: If you would like to learn more do an internet search for GTD you will find a ton of information...but don't look too much go GSD: Get Something Done.
www.popalock.com
There is no substitute for a SINCERE desire to take care of customers. The motivation to ensure that customer, clients and accounts are taken care of properly and promptly is what drew me to Pop-A-Lock and has kept me here. When everything is said and done, nobody but nobody follow through for customers as much, as frequently or with the same degree of alacrity as the team at Pop-A-Lock. If you need a locksmith please consider using us, we love to prove that the needs of our customers are THE FOCUS of our entire business.
In a recent exchange with a franchisee, they asked me ‘How do you keep up with all this stuff?’ I gave them a quick history on my background and the simple philosophy that I have adopted. Additionally, I have some pretty neat tools that I’ve picked up that help me keep track of things. As a disclaimer, I get less done than what I would like, I feel some sense of guilt nearly all the time for not ‘doing’ enough ; be that at Pop-A-Lock, at home or with my family. I always feel as though each day is my last. I’ve felt this way since I was about 15 years old and don’t really know why, I had no significant event that I can remember…the feeling just ‘popped’ up on me one day and provides some sort of ‘fundamental drive’ to most of my actions and interests.
So the base ingredient of the ‘system’ is a day to day near death experience type of motivation to ‘do’ stuff.
Next, Interwoven into that is a strong commitment to not letting down Carl, Steve, Don, Jim Fetherman, Paul Sewall, Sam Landers or any of the other franchisees that play such an important part in my life. In the back of my mind I hear a constant mantra…If you don’t help these people in your own particular way, who else will?
The System: I give full credit David Allen and his book GTD (not a self help book) for systematizing many of the process below. I (and probably you) have hodgepodged together many of the same concepts own my own from other sources such as Officer Candidate School and super high intensity training at the University of ‘Trial and Error’.
Rule 1: Collect every thought, every input, every request, every suggestion, every complaint and every piece of feedback into a ‘trusted system’. For me this is surprisingly a very non-technological device; a small hardcover notebook. The purpose of the notebook is to get everything OUT of my head because if I don’t I start committing items to memory through repetition and review. This mental effort of reviewing ‘what’s next’ and ‘don’t forget’ items is very disruptive to any productive time I have. By getting it out of my head, I can step back look at the items and work on them in a more logical manner. I don’t go through a lot of ‘preparation’ or use a special planner with prioritizing letters etc. Those things have always seemed to waste more time. On the electronic side, I do use Outlook to create emails to myself as described in more context later.
The second step is determining if something is ‘Actionable’, in other words is the stimuli that I am getting require some physical action in space. If not I do one of three things with it:
-I delete it, throw it away or otherwise decide that there is nothing to be done with it. The phrase ‘get into empty’ is associated most closely GTD. This goes for your inbox, your calendar, your notebook whatever. If it can be deleted…get rid of it so it doesn’t take up space in your mind. However, I never actually delete anything I just move it to delete and can pull it up at any time later but it is clear of my ‘Mental Ram’ so I can torture myself with other projects and Next Actions.
-I file it away as Reference. Thanks to Google Desktop I do this pretty liberally in the My Documents folder because with Desktop I can find it later by using keywords. Outlook is also very helpful for this as I have one folder that says ‘reference’ that I throw anything that I may need to look at later in it. Google desktop also indexes all Outlook mail.
-Sometimes I’m not sure if an input is actionable or not, for these items I open a new outlook email make a quick note on it then drag it over to my calendar, put it on a ‘recurrence’ reminder for some interval say once a week for certain items, maybe as long as a year for other items. If it is ‘just not that important’ then I will fold the page over in my notebook and every several months I’ll flip through my bent pages in my old notebooks and see what I ‘thought’ was important at the time. The best most powerful aspect of the ‘drag and drop to the calendar’ is that I can ‘Fire and Forget’. Often times when it Pops on my calendar I have some new information or perspective on the issue that will allow me to delete it.
The second ‘rule’ is that if something takes less than 2 minutes to accomplish…I just do it. There are hundreds of things a day that people ‘put off’ because they think they are prioritizing but actually they are just using ‘planning’ as an excuse to procrastinate.
A common challenge to this practice is: If I keep stopping what I am doing to do these little things, then I’ll never get anything done.
There is something to be said about staying focused and ‘on task’ however, there is a little hidden truth here: If you really intend to do both tasks, then there is only one way to ‘waste time’…that is by putting off the 2 minute task. If you continue to ‘revisit’ or have to set up a reminder or ANYTHING except just doing the task…then you have truly wasted time.
This is a lead into the misunderstood term ‘Multi-tasking’, very few people multi-task. I do many true multi-tasking for example: Brushing my teeth, putting on deodorant and watching the morning weather. However, what most people refer to as ‘multi-tasking’ is the ability to quickly and fluidly shift from one task, to another then back the original task without much ‘friction’ or loss of efficiency. For many of us that means, quickly switching from talking to a customer, to looking up a keyblank, to sending in an order, then putting ourselves onsite and taking care of the issues at hand.
A choice: If it takes longer than 2 minutes then I decide if it is a Next Action or a Project. The two aren’t really different except for the ‘scope of work’ involved, however every project has a ‘Next Action’ at the very front of it.
Next Action: Is a physical action that occurs in space and whose description is normally started with a verb: Email, Call, Write, Order, Read, Go to, Schedule flight, make reservation. I avoid what Chris Appelton the San Diego franchisee refers to as ‘Orwellian’ speak, which is characterized by fluffy words like: Coordinate, Plan, Arrange, Review or Foster. You don’t ‘coordinate’ you call someone, you email someone else, you speak to someone in person. This is most closely associated with a ‘things to do list’ however, most people’s ‘things to do list’ is really full of fluffy stuff.
A Project is a multi-step action and I can use my ‘fluffy’ words to describe that but it has to be composed of Next Actions, for example:
Project: Coordinate Baltimore 2009 tow show with Tony
-Write email to tony with suggested agenda
-Call Scott to verify his needs and intentions
And so on.
The concept of ‘Waiting for’ is a status of an specific next action in a project. From the above example of the Tow Show, a ‘waiting for’ is “Waiting for decision by tow show personnel if they are going to allow us to use a room if we aren’t exhibiting. These are the nagging little things that can drive you crazy trying to ‘follow up on’. For me these are the bane of my existence, because I know that most people aren’t carrying on their day to day business the same way that I am and resolving that 2 minute issue will be put off by them for days, weeks or even months before they respond back. However, there is a good way to deal with these issues, for me I drag the email with the substance of the project into my calendar and set a reoccurring reminder on my Outlook so that instead of me nagging myself…I nag the person who I am ‘waiting on’. Often times people come to the realization that you mean business and really need an answer and it is easier for them to address you than to ignore you any longer.
Waiting For usually takes one of two form ‘delegation’ and ‘depending on’. The first one is when you are in some leadership role and have to delegate tasks to others. Whereas the second one is a ‘followership’ role where you are dependent on someone else to do something but they are outside of your sphere of influence. Depending on can range from Waiting on a boss or partner to do something, an outside agency, a skillset provider etc. Sean is a good example of that for me, there are many things that we do that I am ‘depending on’ Sean to accomplish, Royalty Adjustment on 411 is a good example of that type of project for me.
Managing large projects taps into another level of skillset but for the most part the same general rules apply.
Scheduled Review: I look at my stuff constantly in real-time, however I have a pop-up that comes up twice a week during the week and I have a specific time on the weekend that I just go through everything. This usually generates a lot of deleting and crossing out because they were things that were ‘actioned’ already and no longer need my attention. The physical action involves going through my email in-box, going to the last page in current notebook and going through my calendar deleting or changing stuff. When I get through with this I usually rewrite my ‘next actions’, putting at least one ‘next action’ from any current projects and my mind is at ease.
Troop Leading Procedures
Another time tested and battle tested process are the 9 Troop leading procedures. It is a systematic combination of the two old axioms: The Best Plan rendered too late is worthless and the first casualty of any war is the best laid plan. I have always said that these are more ‘descriptive’ than ‘proscriptive’ in that they describe what is ‘supposed to be going on’ however direct application is never perfect…big however If you miss any steps you are likely doing something wrong.
I have encountered many people in many different walks of life and violation of these troop leading procedures appears to be a rampant problem, particularly omission of steps 2 and 3.
1. Receive the Mission: This sounds like a passive step but it is usually the first mistake people make. They don’t actively think about what someone is asking them to do, they misunderstand, they don’t capture the details in a trusted system. I can’t count how many new owners have sat in SFA and not written down a thing they encounter, I know they didn’t retain the material because when I ask basic question at the end they cannot answer them. When you are listening for understanding, it is ok to not take notes but when you are listening to ‘receive the details of a mission’ it’s best to capture those items.
*However, the most important aspect of receiving the mission is the ‘brief back’, this when you state back to whoever you are dealing with what you perceived they just told you. It is surprising how often this prevent some major misunderstanding, however many people don’t do it because they didn’t understand and are trying to cover up for the fact they weren’t paying attention, they are embarrassed to ask clarifying questions or they simply don’t really intend to do anything about it anyway.
2. Make a Tentative Plan: Many people, even ‘seasoned’ operators skip this step. They jump straight into researching and trying to dig up all the details on an issue. In many most of the procrastinators I deal with this is their fatal flaw, they don’t want to commit to a simple course of action early on in the process…because they might be wrong.
3. Give a Warning Order: This is letting the people involved in some process know that ‘change is coming’ that ‘action is soon’, this gives them time to begin processing information and taking actions at their level. If it is a subordinate leader under you, then they should be going straight to Step one of this process.
4. Start Necessary Movement: This is the stage that regardless of what specifics you are doing, you likely need to get in place. For us it is things like exchanging contact information, making sure you have your ‘beans and bullets’, setting up accounts, getting credit card processing going, contacting the phone company to find out what information you will need etc.
5. Conduct a Reconnaissance/Research: This is when you begin your strong due diligence, getting the part numbers, going look at the job site, going to a company webpage to see what they are about, contacting other franchisees, calling SFA for questions and support, going to a meeting, meeting with a realtor, meeting with a dealership employee etc.
6. Complete the Plan: This is when you finalize what your next actions are going to be, create time lines, draw the layout of the building, prepare the final order, get the final feedback from anyone you are consulting with on the project.
7. Issue the Plan: You let everyone know in detail what you is going on, what you are asking them to do, what they can expect, answer their questions.
8. Rehearse the action: GET YOUR BRIEF BACK from your subordinates, subordinate leaders, cohorts, partners or others involved to ensure they know what is going on. Test the projector, email the instructions to yourself to see if the format looks correct, send them to someone else to make sure they can read the attachments, do a mock sales call with a teammate etc.
9. Supervise and Refine the Plan: Make it a point to touch back each person to ensure that things are going as intended, if not identify the problems, seek solutions and refine the plan and keep others abreast of ‘Changes’ (I know these as Frago or fragmentary orders).
In summary, these are just some ‘hacks’ that can help you either get more things done, or far the less motivated…get the same things done with less hassle/problem/stress. Warning: The subtle questions “Is this actionable?” and “What is the Next Action?” become very dominant in your thinking. I know that I have personally ‘put people off’ because they frequently confront me with ‘non-actionable’ input and I don’t tend to play along (for long)…I’m polite, smile and say ‘Ok, all that sounds good, but no real action needed?’ This is a brief back to confirm that what they are talking about is not ‘actionable’ and that no ‘next action’ is required. It can come across a little stiff but probably helps both parties.
Follow Up: If you would like to learn more do an internet search for GTD you will find a ton of information...but don't look too much go GSD: Get Something Done.
www.popalock.com
There is no substitute for a SINCERE desire to take care of customers. The motivation to ensure that customer, clients and accounts are taken care of properly and promptly is what drew me to Pop-A-Lock and has kept me here. When everything is said and done, nobody but nobody follow through for customers as much, as frequently or with the same degree of alacrity as the team at Pop-A-Lock. If you need a locksmith please consider using us, we love to prove that the needs of our customers are THE FOCUS of our entire business.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Honored 2: Louisiana Life Safety Advisory Board
Governor Bobby Jindal Announces Appointments to the Life Safety and Property Protection Advisory Board
I have assisted the State Fire Marshal's office for several years with issues regarding locksmith licensing in the State of Louisiana. The state utilize various volunteer committees composed of industry representatives from across the state for guidance on issues such as education, training, administrative rules development, legislative clarifications, terminology and information gathering purposes.
However the State utilizes a specific Board assigned by the authority of the Governor to assist specifically regarding issues of Life Safety and Property Protection. This board has a locksmith representative to help provide insight into technical and logistical aspects of the locksmith industry.
I was nominated to serve on this board and was recently appointed by Gov. Jindal to represent the Locksmiths and affiliated industries within the State of Louisiana.
I have always received a great sense of satisfaction from performing duty and service, especially when it comes to education and helping others understand locksmithing and the property protection industry. The LSPP board offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the efforts of the State to ensure that the field practices within our industry help the public be safe and protect the public faith that security practices are fairly and honestly represented.
My agenda is very simple: Ensure that the locksmith industry is fairly represented in the affairs of the board and to provide the board with technical and tactical information needed to make smart decisions regarding the practices that it has purview over.
The ever present mission in any type of leadership position is education. Helping foster education and training opportunities in the State is an ongoing effort that serves to increase the professionalism, effectiveness and safety practices used within the locksmith industry. Working with the LSPP board and serving on the Louisiana Life Safety and Security Association advisory board will greatly assist in the effort of bringing quality education and training opportunities to the locksmiths and prospective locksmiths of Louisiana.
=========================================
Did you know?
Only a few states and municipalities have enacted legislation to protect their citizens by establishing basic standards for locksmiths regarding criminal history, competency and technical integrity. (Source: Aloa.org)
Please contact your representative and urge them to sponsor/adopt/support licensing of Locksmiths and other Security Professionals in your state. The Associated Locksmiths of America provides logistical and administrative support to your elected officials by providing model bills, ethical standards of practice, nationally recognized certifying exams, continuing education classes and connections with local associations to support grass roots support for their efforts.
They need only contact legislative@aloa.org to get started.
I have assisted the State Fire Marshal's office for several years with issues regarding locksmith licensing in the State of Louisiana. The state utilize various volunteer committees composed of industry representatives from across the state for guidance on issues such as education, training, administrative rules development, legislative clarifications, terminology and information gathering purposes.
However the State utilizes a specific Board assigned by the authority of the Governor to assist specifically regarding issues of Life Safety and Property Protection. This board has a locksmith representative to help provide insight into technical and logistical aspects of the locksmith industry.
I was nominated to serve on this board and was recently appointed by Gov. Jindal to represent the Locksmiths and affiliated industries within the State of Louisiana.
I have always received a great sense of satisfaction from performing duty and service, especially when it comes to education and helping others understand locksmithing and the property protection industry. The LSPP board offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the efforts of the State to ensure that the field practices within our industry help the public be safe and protect the public faith that security practices are fairly and honestly represented.
My agenda is very simple: Ensure that the locksmith industry is fairly represented in the affairs of the board and to provide the board with technical and tactical information needed to make smart decisions regarding the practices that it has purview over.
The ever present mission in any type of leadership position is education. Helping foster education and training opportunities in the State is an ongoing effort that serves to increase the professionalism, effectiveness and safety practices used within the locksmith industry. Working with the LSPP board and serving on the Louisiana Life Safety and Security Association advisory board will greatly assist in the effort of bringing quality education and training opportunities to the locksmiths and prospective locksmiths of Louisiana.
=========================================
Did you know?
Only a few states and municipalities have enacted legislation to protect their citizens by establishing basic standards for locksmiths regarding criminal history, competency and technical integrity. (Source: Aloa.org)
Please contact your representative and urge them to sponsor/adopt/support licensing of Locksmiths and other Security Professionals in your state. The Associated Locksmiths of America provides logistical and administrative support to your elected officials by providing model bills, ethical standards of practice, nationally recognized certifying exams, continuing education classes and connections with local associations to support grass roots support for their efforts.
They need only contact legislative@aloa.org to get started.
Honored 1: Aloa Person of the Year for the Legislative Action Network
I recently had some honors/responsibilities placed on me. The first happened at the Associated Locksmiths of America convention and tradeshow in Las Vegas, Nv this August.
Aloa named me as Person of the Year for work I've been doing to help combat the scammer locksmiths through the Legislative Action Network. The presentation was unannounced and I was quite taken by surprise. I received a call a short while before the award banquet and was asked to 'stop by' and say hello to a few people, so I did. I came by and spoke with a few people and was about to excuse myself as I had some other planned events coming up shortly and was asked 'won't you sit tight just for about 15 minutes'.
The presenter, Tim McMullen was making the presentations and they got to the last item and he started saying how some person had done this and that and all these anti-scammer things. I thought to myself, "I guess this is who they wanted me to talk to, I need to coordinate my efforts with what he is doing...it sounds like he is doing some good things."
Then at the end of the presentation, they said my name! I could feel my face flush with true surprise. I will always remember thinking how only seconds before I was trying to think of ways to communicate with the who's efforts they were describing.
I'm ever entertained by life's little irony's.
My next next thoughts as I walked up to get the very nice plaque were very sobering, real people are depending on me to sustain these efforts, to double those efforts in fact. I am not the commanding officer in this effort, Aloa is in the Company Commander spot...but I'm very conscious that I am at least doing map reading and navigation duty on the effort. My biggest fear is to lead the effort into an ambush or off the correct path.
In summary any accolade properly bestowed is also pre-loaded with responsibility.
The best way to 'stay clear' of scammers is by doing one of these two options when trying to find a real local locksmith:
1. Find a bona fide local Pop-A-Lock locksmith to service your needs.
2. Visit www.findalocksmith.com to select an Aloa professional locksmith.
Look for the Aloa symbol and scammer warning in your local yellow pages when seeking a 'scam free' locksmith.
Pop-A-Lock Locksmith
Aloa Locksmith
Aloa named me as Person of the Year for work I've been doing to help combat the scammer locksmiths through the Legislative Action Network. The presentation was unannounced and I was quite taken by surprise. I received a call a short while before the award banquet and was asked to 'stop by' and say hello to a few people, so I did. I came by and spoke with a few people and was about to excuse myself as I had some other planned events coming up shortly and was asked 'won't you sit tight just for about 15 minutes'.
The presenter, Tim McMullen was making the presentations and they got to the last item and he started saying how some person had done this and that and all these anti-scammer things. I thought to myself, "I guess this is who they wanted me to talk to, I need to coordinate my efforts with what he is doing...it sounds like he is doing some good things."
Then at the end of the presentation, they said my name! I could feel my face flush with true surprise. I will always remember thinking how only seconds before I was trying to think of ways to communicate with the who's efforts they were describing.
I'm ever entertained by life's little irony's.
My next next thoughts as I walked up to get the very nice plaque were very sobering, real people are depending on me to sustain these efforts, to double those efforts in fact. I am not the commanding officer in this effort, Aloa is in the Company Commander spot...but I'm very conscious that I am at least doing map reading and navigation duty on the effort. My biggest fear is to lead the effort into an ambush or off the correct path.
In summary any accolade properly bestowed is also pre-loaded with responsibility.
The best way to 'stay clear' of scammers is by doing one of these two options when trying to find a real local locksmith:
1. Find a bona fide local Pop-A-Lock locksmith to service your needs.
2. Visit www.findalocksmith.com to select an Aloa professional locksmith.
Look for the Aloa symbol and scammer warning in your local yellow pages when seeking a 'scam free' locksmith.
Pop-A-Lock Locksmith
Aloa Locksmith
Friday, September 4, 2009
Much more than a franchise: Pop-A-Lock of Riverside, CA Locksmith
The longer I am with Pop-A-Lock the more I come to understand the true nature of what a 'family run' business means. The paradox of our company is that we seem like a 'big' company but in truth we are a single living entity of people all heading for the same goal.
I was reminded of that this week when I got some good news from our Riverside branch. They had finally gotten a contract that they had been seeking for some time and I was included on the distribution of an internal email that they sent to their team of techs and locksmiths. The email was such a 'local' and 'personal' exchange with their team, thanking them for all of their efforts that it really highlighted to me how much of a 'family business' we really are now.
Riverside is one of the hardest working 'boot strap' locations I've had a chance to work with since my time in Pop-A-Lock. They have an extremely large coverage area and a great deal of scammers to compete with there. Despite that, they have persevered, learned the trade well and have stayed focused on the primary mission: Make customer truly satisfied.
www.locksmith-in-riverside.com is the homepage of Pop-A-Lock of Riverside. They provide every type of locksmith service we offer. They have had a good deal of success with many local businesses who have come to appreciate the specialized attention and care that they receive from Pop-A-Lock of Riverside.
Congratulations to Art & Teri and their whole team on their recent account success and I'm sure there are many more to come.
Pop-A-Lock of Riverside Locksmith can be reached:
Riverside / Corona 951-683-2669
Arlington 951-688-5397
Mira Loma 951-361-1733
Moreno Valley 951-243-6393
or Toll-Free 1-800-POP-A-LOCK
I was reminded of that this week when I got some good news from our Riverside branch. They had finally gotten a contract that they had been seeking for some time and I was included on the distribution of an internal email that they sent to their team of techs and locksmiths. The email was such a 'local' and 'personal' exchange with their team, thanking them for all of their efforts that it really highlighted to me how much of a 'family business' we really are now.
Riverside is one of the hardest working 'boot strap' locations I've had a chance to work with since my time in Pop-A-Lock. They have an extremely large coverage area and a great deal of scammers to compete with there. Despite that, they have persevered, learned the trade well and have stayed focused on the primary mission: Make customer truly satisfied.
www.locksmith-in-riverside.com is the homepage of Pop-A-Lock of Riverside. They provide every type of locksmith service we offer. They have had a good deal of success with many local businesses who have come to appreciate the specialized attention and care that they receive from Pop-A-Lock of Riverside.
Congratulations to Art & Teri and their whole team on their recent account success and I'm sure there are many more to come.
Pop-A-Lock of Riverside Locksmith can be reached:
Riverside / Corona 951-683-2669
Arlington 951-688-5397
Mira Loma 951-361-1733
Moreno Valley 951-243-6393
or Toll-Free 1-800-POP-A-LOCK
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Mass AG Files Lawsuit against Locksmith Firm
Attorney General Martha Coakley Files Suit Against Bronx Locksmith Company and Its Owners for Role in Locksmith Scheme
BOSTON – Today, Attorney General Martha Coakely’s Office filed a lawsuit against a Bronx, New York, based company and its principals for allegedly operating a locksmith scheme that deceived Massachusetts consumers into believing they were contacting local locksmith companies, and then charged consumers hundreds of dollars more than the quoted price for their services. The Attorney General’s Office also obtained a temporary restraining order preventing defendants from destroying any documents or transferring any assets and is seeking permanent injunctive relief, restitution, penalties, costs and attorney’s fees.
“The defendants have repeatedly taken advantage of vulnerable consumers who are locked out of their homes and cars,” said Attorney General Martha Coakley. “By saturating Massachusetts phone books with their false advertisements and overcharging customers for their services, the defendants have not only harmed consumers, but also negatively affected legitimate locksmith companies in the Commonwealth.”
According to the complaint, filed today in Suffolk Superior Court, Dependable Locks Inc., run by principals David Peer and Adam Olivkovich, is a locksmith company that operates under at least a dozen different aliases and acted as a front for a scheme by which consumers were deceived through false advertising, false low estimates, and high pressure tactics. Consumers were targeted by the defendants, who would pose as local locksmiths by advertising in Massachusetts phone books and on the Internet by using local phone numbers and false regional addresses. Typically, Dependable Locks’ aliases began with the letter “A” or numbers to ensure placement at the beginning of the phone book listings. However, when a consumer called one of the defendants’ listed local numbers, they actually reached an operator at a call center in the Bronx, New York. The corresponding addresses listed with Dependable Locks’ aliases are false and are actually used by other non-related businesses or are personal addresses. Some of the aliases that the defendants used include 123 24 Hour A Locks & Locksmith, 24 Hour A Locks & Locksmith, A Emergency A Locksmith, and Emergency A Locks & Locksmith.
Once a consumer made contact with the call center, the operator would then quote an artificially low price for the service and fail to indicate that they only accept cash payment. The complaint further explains that the call center would dispatch a locksmith in an unmarked vehicle. Instead of picking the lock, the locksmith would replace the entire lock unit, often in a shoddy manner, and use high-pressure tactics and intimidation to force customers into paying previously undisclosed fees often hundreds of dollars more than the price consumers were originally quoted over the phone. According to the complaint, in one instance a consumer was charged over $800 after being quote a price of $54 over the phone.
The Attorney General’s Office alleges that the defendants have violated the Attorney General’s regulations by failing to provide an advance written estimate of repairs to customers, making or charging for repairs that have not been authorized by customers, representing that repairs are necessary-when such is not a fact, and failing to provide customers with an itemized list of repairs.
A hearing has been scheduled on the Attorney General’s request for a preliminary injunction on September 10, 2009, at 2:00 p.m., in Suffolk Superior Court.
This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Shannon Choy-Seymour of Attorney General Coakley’s Consumer Protection Division with assistance from Jake Harney of Attorney General Coakley’s Investigations Division.
Source: http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2009_08_31_dependable_locks&csid=Cago
BOSTON – Today, Attorney General Martha Coakely’s Office filed a lawsuit against a Bronx, New York, based company and its principals for allegedly operating a locksmith scheme that deceived Massachusetts consumers into believing they were contacting local locksmith companies, and then charged consumers hundreds of dollars more than the quoted price for their services. The Attorney General’s Office also obtained a temporary restraining order preventing defendants from destroying any documents or transferring any assets and is seeking permanent injunctive relief, restitution, penalties, costs and attorney’s fees.
“The defendants have repeatedly taken advantage of vulnerable consumers who are locked out of their homes and cars,” said Attorney General Martha Coakley. “By saturating Massachusetts phone books with their false advertisements and overcharging customers for their services, the defendants have not only harmed consumers, but also negatively affected legitimate locksmith companies in the Commonwealth.”
According to the complaint, filed today in Suffolk Superior Court, Dependable Locks Inc., run by principals David Peer and Adam Olivkovich, is a locksmith company that operates under at least a dozen different aliases and acted as a front for a scheme by which consumers were deceived through false advertising, false low estimates, and high pressure tactics. Consumers were targeted by the defendants, who would pose as local locksmiths by advertising in Massachusetts phone books and on the Internet by using local phone numbers and false regional addresses. Typically, Dependable Locks’ aliases began with the letter “A” or numbers to ensure placement at the beginning of the phone book listings. However, when a consumer called one of the defendants’ listed local numbers, they actually reached an operator at a call center in the Bronx, New York. The corresponding addresses listed with Dependable Locks’ aliases are false and are actually used by other non-related businesses or are personal addresses. Some of the aliases that the defendants used include 123 24 Hour A Locks & Locksmith, 24 Hour A Locks & Locksmith, A Emergency A Locksmith, and Emergency A Locks & Locksmith.
Once a consumer made contact with the call center, the operator would then quote an artificially low price for the service and fail to indicate that they only accept cash payment. The complaint further explains that the call center would dispatch a locksmith in an unmarked vehicle. Instead of picking the lock, the locksmith would replace the entire lock unit, often in a shoddy manner, and use high-pressure tactics and intimidation to force customers into paying previously undisclosed fees often hundreds of dollars more than the price consumers were originally quoted over the phone. According to the complaint, in one instance a consumer was charged over $800 after being quote a price of $54 over the phone.
The Attorney General’s Office alleges that the defendants have violated the Attorney General’s regulations by failing to provide an advance written estimate of repairs to customers, making or charging for repairs that have not been authorized by customers, representing that repairs are necessary-when such is not a fact, and failing to provide customers with an itemized list of repairs.
A hearing has been scheduled on the Attorney General’s request for a preliminary injunction on September 10, 2009, at 2:00 p.m., in Suffolk Superior Court.
This matter is being handled by Assistant Attorney General Shannon Choy-Seymour of Attorney General Coakley’s Consumer Protection Division with assistance from Jake Harney of Attorney General Coakley’s Investigations Division.
Source: http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=cagopressrelease&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Cago&b=pressrelease&f=2009_08_31_dependable_locks&csid=Cago
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Pop-A-Lock Hawaii
I had the opportunity to visit Hawaii during the start up of our franchise there. We did initial technical training as well as a week of set up and marketing.
The website is www.popalockofhonolulu.com and have some unique Hawaiian graphics on the vehicle that use the Hibiscus in the design. Perhaps they will post some pictures up soon on their site.
We owe a big thanks to Paul and his team at the Auto Recyclers yard where we did training. I posted lots of pics up at my facebook page.
They are equipped to do nearly any type of locksmithing including key generation, rekeys, installation, transponders and high security keys.
The island was very beautiful and it was a very productive visit!
The website is www.popalockofhonolulu.com and have some unique Hawaiian graphics on the vehicle that use the Hibiscus in the design. Perhaps they will post some pictures up soon on their site.
We owe a big thanks to Paul and his team at the Auto Recyclers yard where we did training. I posted lots of pics up at my facebook page.
They are equipped to do nearly any type of locksmithing including key generation, rekeys, installation, transponders and high security keys.
The island was very beautiful and it was a very productive visit!
Thursday, March 26, 2009
California Creates Unlicensed Activity Action Unit
In an effort to combat phony locksmiths, California has created a specialized unit to track down and prosecute these con artist.
UNLICENSED ACTIVITY ACTION UNIT (UAAU)
In February of 2009, the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
(BSIS) developed an Unlicensed Activity Action Unit (UAAU) to increase their efforts to curtail unlicensed and unregistered activities of those performing work in the Private Security Industries which include Alarm Companies, Locksmiths, Repossessors, Private Investigators, Private Patrol Companies, Security Guards, and Weapons Training Facilities.
This unit is staffed by experienced enforcement analysts from within BSIS's Enforcement Division. UAAU primary function is to investigate unlicensed and or unregistered activity leads received from the public, licensees and government agencies; as well as conduct sweeps with other law enforcement and governmental agencies.
REPORTING UNLICENSED AND UNREGISTERED ACTIVITY
The Bureau has simplified the reporting process by providing an online activity lead form. The informant may remain anonymous but if there is not enough information provided the Bureau may not be able to pursue. Anonymous activity lead forms will be kept confidential. The activity lead forms are processed according to the date of receipt, priority, and staff availability. You must provide as much detailed information as possible including the location(s) and time(s) of the activity which are extremely important.
UNLICENSED ACTIVITY ACTION UNIT (UAAU)
Access the online UAAU Activity Lead form at http://www.bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/uaau_lead_form.pdf
Complete the UAAU Activity Lead Form and submit it to the Bureau either by:
Mail it to the Bureau at:
Bureau of Security and Investigative Service P.O. Box 980550 West Sacramento, California 95798
ATTN: UAAU
Fax it to the Bureau at: (916) 575-7289
Email it to the Bureau at: uaau_bsisunit@dca.ca.gov
Thank you.
Avoid the scams, just remember the name Pop-A-Lock A Trusted Locksmith Nationwide. No cons, no bait and switch just great service.
UNLICENSED ACTIVITY ACTION UNIT (UAAU)
In February of 2009, the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
(BSIS) developed an Unlicensed Activity Action Unit (UAAU) to increase their efforts to curtail unlicensed and unregistered activities of those performing work in the Private Security Industries which include Alarm Companies, Locksmiths, Repossessors, Private Investigators, Private Patrol Companies, Security Guards, and Weapons Training Facilities.
This unit is staffed by experienced enforcement analysts from within BSIS's Enforcement Division. UAAU primary function is to investigate unlicensed and or unregistered activity leads received from the public, licensees and government agencies; as well as conduct sweeps with other law enforcement and governmental agencies.
REPORTING UNLICENSED AND UNREGISTERED ACTIVITY
The Bureau has simplified the reporting process by providing an online activity lead form. The informant may remain anonymous but if there is not enough information provided the Bureau may not be able to pursue. Anonymous activity lead forms will be kept confidential. The activity lead forms are processed according to the date of receipt, priority, and staff availability. You must provide as much detailed information as possible including the location(s) and time(s) of the activity which are extremely important.
UNLICENSED ACTIVITY ACTION UNIT (UAAU)
Access the online UAAU Activity Lead form at http://www.bsis.ca.gov/forms_pubs/uaau_lead_form.pdf
Complete the UAAU Activity Lead Form and submit it to the Bureau either by:
Mail it to the Bureau at:
Bureau of Security and Investigative Service P.O. Box 980550 West Sacramento, California 95798
ATTN: UAAU
Fax it to the Bureau at: (916) 575-7289
Email it to the Bureau at: uaau_bsisunit@dca.ca.gov
Thank you.
Avoid the scams, just remember the name Pop-A-Lock A Trusted Locksmith Nationwide. No cons, no bait and switch just great service.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
What is all the fuss about Locksmiths in Google?
There has been a recent flurry of activity on many SEO blogs regarding Locksmiths across the country. Whats the deal?
Most locksmith listings in the United States are now Phony. They far out number the legitimate locksmiths...probably by an unspeakable order of magnitude. If you pick a phone number at random from the internet, odds are you will be ripped off.
A search in any major city (or lots of rural areas) will result in a massive display of fradulent listings. In one recent article an SEO guru noted there according to Google there are more locksmiths in NYC than Cabs. This is an obvious exploit that is being conducted by unscrupulus people
The Associated Locksmiths of America (www.aloa.org) has been doing it's best to combat this but this is beyond the ability of 'outsiders' to do anything. It may be even be beyond the capacity of law enforcement and Google themselves to correct the problem as well.
As the largest legitimate provider of locksmith service in the United States, we have become a centralized point for many locksmiths to complain about this scammer/phoney/spammer locksmith problem. We have invested SIGNIFICANT amounts of money into legal fees, research and communication into helping combat this both on our own behalf as well as independent locksmith who we have no formal relationships with in some cases. We have the most formal complaints on file with Google, the legal system and the yellow page directories.
Why is this a big deal?
The scam is robbing customers for tons of money by overcharging them many times the going rate to have service performed. There are also some serious questions regarding how taxes are being paid and if the 'worker bees' that are being imported to perform the work, usually form outside the country, are possibly being exploited.
"Go along with the scam or you might you lose your citizenship." This is the unspoken sword of damaclese hanging over the head of the employees (actually most of them are not w2 employees they are not paying payroll taxes).
So what can be done?
I'm truly at a loss for a magic bullet solution for the whole situation. However, from our standpoint there is a magic bullet: Don't Call a locksmith...call Pop-A-Lock instead. If stranded individuals or individuals in need of locksmith service just called us directly, we could take care of them nationwide and no one would ever get ripped off by locksmiths again.
We are the only company who can make that claim and have massive amounts of historical data to justify the statement. Since 1991 we have performed literally millions of calls and from BBB records, I estimate that we have a legitimate complaints in the Six Sigma range against our work. I'm sure any Six Sigma Guru can appreciate how incredible that is, particularly for a service business that is resolving such an 'emotional' problem as that of people being stranded and locked out of their house, business or vehicle.
About the most legitimate complaint we occasionally get is that we arrive later than projected. This is a statisically very small percentage. The reality of the nature of traffic and the unpredictability of certain types of work contributes to this and we often reduce the cost of service to help compensate...even though it may have been something out of our control.
From a data sample of nearly 3 years worth of data our Average ETA for road service calls is under 34 minutes, in some cities that arrival time is less than 20 Minutes. That is not 'projected time' that is measured data from the time a request for service is sent out until the tech is onsite with the customer. That metric can also be vetted against data from Major roadservice providers who have used us in the past as well.
We currently service over 148 MSA's in the US, which is about 5000 communities with real tax paying, American, W-2 employees. In areas where we have no Pop-A-Lock we recommend locksmiths from the Associated Locksmiths of America Database or state licensing databases that we have real time access to 24 hours a day.
We pay our taxes, we pay fair wages and offer benefits to our employees in many locations. This gives us a very stable base of knoweledgable employees who, unlike the majority of the industry, require at least a certain amount of formal training before they are allowed to service customers.
We are licensed both as a company and down to the employee in every state and city that requires licensing. Our own requirements for employees usually far exceed the requirements dictated by the governing authority over locksmiths in the state.
To be clear: There are thousands of great locksmiths around, some of these people are the most skilled people in the world at a very demanding trade that can be very difficult to get training in specialized subjects. If someone has a longstanding relationship with an existing locksmith, by all means use someone you know and trust. The last thing you do though is look up a locksmith at random from the yellow pages, 411 or the internet.
All circumstances considered, if you have no other information and you are stranded the smartest thing to do from a purely statistical and logical perspective is to call 1-800-Pop A Lock (or a local number through 411 or your smart phone browser). If we have someone in your MSA we will service you at a fair price, if we don't we will give you the next best option in your area if any other options exist.
If you are a locksmith and have found that your ad has been hijacked, please submit your complaint directly to Google through this link (http://maps.google.com/support/bin/request.py?contact_type=maps_spam)
Our home website to find locksmiths nationwide is: http://www.popalock.com/locations.php
Most locksmith listings in the United States are now Phony. They far out number the legitimate locksmiths...probably by an unspeakable order of magnitude. If you pick a phone number at random from the internet, odds are you will be ripped off.
A search in any major city (or lots of rural areas) will result in a massive display of fradulent listings. In one recent article an SEO guru noted there according to Google there are more locksmiths in NYC than Cabs. This is an obvious exploit that is being conducted by unscrupulus people
The Associated Locksmiths of America (www.aloa.org) has been doing it's best to combat this but this is beyond the ability of 'outsiders' to do anything. It may be even be beyond the capacity of law enforcement and Google themselves to correct the problem as well.
As the largest legitimate provider of locksmith service in the United States, we have become a centralized point for many locksmiths to complain about this scammer/phoney/spammer locksmith problem. We have invested SIGNIFICANT amounts of money into legal fees, research and communication into helping combat this both on our own behalf as well as independent locksmith who we have no formal relationships with in some cases. We have the most formal complaints on file with Google, the legal system and the yellow page directories.
Why is this a big deal?
The scam is robbing customers for tons of money by overcharging them many times the going rate to have service performed. There are also some serious questions regarding how taxes are being paid and if the 'worker bees' that are being imported to perform the work, usually form outside the country, are possibly being exploited.
"Go along with the scam or you might you lose your citizenship." This is the unspoken sword of damaclese hanging over the head of the employees (actually most of them are not w2 employees they are not paying payroll taxes).
So what can be done?
I'm truly at a loss for a magic bullet solution for the whole situation. However, from our standpoint there is a magic bullet: Don't Call a locksmith...call Pop-A-Lock instead. If stranded individuals or individuals in need of locksmith service just called us directly, we could take care of them nationwide and no one would ever get ripped off by locksmiths again.
We are the only company who can make that claim and have massive amounts of historical data to justify the statement. Since 1991 we have performed literally millions of calls and from BBB records, I estimate that we have a legitimate complaints in the Six Sigma range against our work. I'm sure any Six Sigma Guru can appreciate how incredible that is, particularly for a service business that is resolving such an 'emotional' problem as that of people being stranded and locked out of their house, business or vehicle.
About the most legitimate complaint we occasionally get is that we arrive later than projected. This is a statisically very small percentage. The reality of the nature of traffic and the unpredictability of certain types of work contributes to this and we often reduce the cost of service to help compensate...even though it may have been something out of our control.
From a data sample of nearly 3 years worth of data our Average ETA for road service calls is under 34 minutes, in some cities that arrival time is less than 20 Minutes. That is not 'projected time' that is measured data from the time a request for service is sent out until the tech is onsite with the customer. That metric can also be vetted against data from Major roadservice providers who have used us in the past as well.
We currently service over 148 MSA's in the US, which is about 5000 communities with real tax paying, American, W-2 employees. In areas where we have no Pop-A-Lock we recommend locksmiths from the Associated Locksmiths of America Database or state licensing databases that we have real time access to 24 hours a day.
We pay our taxes, we pay fair wages and offer benefits to our employees in many locations. This gives us a very stable base of knoweledgable employees who, unlike the majority of the industry, require at least a certain amount of formal training before they are allowed to service customers.
We are licensed both as a company and down to the employee in every state and city that requires licensing. Our own requirements for employees usually far exceed the requirements dictated by the governing authority over locksmiths in the state.
To be clear: There are thousands of great locksmiths around, some of these people are the most skilled people in the world at a very demanding trade that can be very difficult to get training in specialized subjects. If someone has a longstanding relationship with an existing locksmith, by all means use someone you know and trust. The last thing you do though is look up a locksmith at random from the yellow pages, 411 or the internet.
All circumstances considered, if you have no other information and you are stranded the smartest thing to do from a purely statistical and logical perspective is to call 1-800-Pop A Lock (or a local number through 411 or your smart phone browser). If we have someone in your MSA we will service you at a fair price, if we don't we will give you the next best option in your area if any other options exist.
If you are a locksmith and have found that your ad has been hijacked, please submit your complaint directly to Google through this link (http://maps.google.com/support/bin/request.py?contact_type=maps_spam)
Our home website to find locksmiths nationwide is: http://www.popalock.com/locations.php
Friday, March 13, 2009
California Helps Fight the Locksmith Scammers
This summary is not available. Please
click here to view the post.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Pop-A-Lock of Virginia Awesome Locksmith!
Pop-A-Lock of Virginia was established in August of 1996. Since then Pop-A-Lock of Virginia has been providing Emergency Locksmith Services, Car Unlocking Services, and Roadside Assistance Services with one objective in mind: 100% customerer satisfaction. Pop-A-Lock of Virginia is a family owned business committed to customer service, quick response times, and professionalism. Pop-A-Lock employees are rigorously screened, and receive the most technologically advanced training in the locksmith and car door unlocking industry.
Pop-A-Lock of Virginia is licensed by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, and is bonded and insured. As well, Pop-A-Lock provides a 100% guarantee on all work performed. Pop-A-Lock Locksmiths will arrive at your location in marked vehicles, and will be outfitted in company uniforms inluding ID Badges. We pride ourselves on standing out from our competitors in a positive manner.
Finally, "POP-A-LOCK GIVES BACK". We are proud to take part in the National Community Service Program created by Pop-A-Lock called the "Emergency Door Unlocking (EDU) Program" in which Pop-A-Lock provides it's door unlocking service free to the customer when a child is locked inside a vehicle or home. Pop-A-Lock of Viginia has exclusive agreements with police departments and 911 dispatch centers in Richmond, on the Peninsula, and in Southside to make EDU service a priority.
Give Pop-A-Lock of Virginia a chance to earn your business for life!!!!!!!!!!
Pop-A-Lock of Virginia is licensed by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, and is bonded and insured. As well, Pop-A-Lock provides a 100% guarantee on all work performed. Pop-A-Lock Locksmiths will arrive at your location in marked vehicles, and will be outfitted in company uniforms inluding ID Badges. We pride ourselves on standing out from our competitors in a positive manner.
Finally, "POP-A-LOCK GIVES BACK". We are proud to take part in the National Community Service Program created by Pop-A-Lock called the "Emergency Door Unlocking (EDU) Program" in which Pop-A-Lock provides it's door unlocking service free to the customer when a child is locked inside a vehicle or home. Pop-A-Lock of Viginia has exclusive agreements with police departments and 911 dispatch centers in Richmond, on the Peninsula, and in Southside to make EDU service a priority.
Give Pop-A-Lock of Virginia a chance to earn your business for life!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
How NOT to get scammed by a locksmith!
Recently my cousin was out of town and broke the key to his truck off in the ignition. He was in a city that had no Pop-A-Lock and he called me to get some advice. He orginally was asking how to get the key out but soon realized that would likely do more harm than good.
With the do-it-yourself option out of the way we began to try to find a real local locksmith who could give him a hand at a reasonable price.
He had no internet access and the phone book was missing from his room so we were forced to go to the internet to locate someone.
When I did the search for the city (middle of nowhere texas) and the term locksmith. I got hundreds of listings, the odds of all of them actually being locksmiths in BFE texas were slim to none. Some even had local numbers but I suspected that the only thing 'local' about the companies was the area code and prefix.
I called two of them that looked legit but got an answer of 'Locksmith' in a thick foreign hard to identify accent. I know what that means (one price now but a huge price later).
I looked through the phone numbers and listings until I found one that had a address listed then went to Google(r) maps and checked the street level view. The address showed a government looking building and no sign of a locksmith shop...another strike out.
Lastly, I called 411 and asked for a locksmith in that town and was given the same number that I had found on the internet earlier. Strike 3 blah.
Here I was the Director of Operations for the largest locksmith company and I'm struggling to find a locksmith for my cousin. I checked the www.findalocksmith.com site and they had no listing for that area or for the zip code either.
Left with no other real option, I resorted to calling the local police station (non-emergency number) explained my situation and asked for a referral for a real local locksmith. The dispatcher gave me a local number and I called them to get some help.
When I called the locksmith I explained who I was and what was going on with my cousin. We also discussed how his local internet had been over-run with fake listings, he stated that there were actually only two locksmiths within a 25 mile radius of that town and was candid enough to tell me the name of the other locksmith.
He took care of my cousin at a great price and also inquired about becoming a Pop-A-Lock provider.
At the end of this episode I'm still left with only two ways of really getting a 'real' locksmith:
1. Call 1-800-Popalock (1-800-767-2562) if we have a provider we can tell you immediately without having to search.
2. Go to find a locksmith on our Popalock.com page
3. Or call the local non-emergency number for police or fire and ask for a referral.
So many of the other local names are so close aaaaa1aaaaa Locksmith could be a real local or it could be scammer, at this point is almost impossible to tell.
With the do-it-yourself option out of the way we began to try to find a real local locksmith who could give him a hand at a reasonable price.
He had no internet access and the phone book was missing from his room so we were forced to go to the internet to locate someone.
When I did the search for the city (middle of nowhere texas) and the term locksmith. I got hundreds of listings, the odds of all of them actually being locksmiths in BFE texas were slim to none. Some even had local numbers but I suspected that the only thing 'local' about the companies was the area code and prefix.
I called two of them that looked legit but got an answer of 'Locksmith' in a thick foreign hard to identify accent. I know what that means (one price now but a huge price later).
I looked through the phone numbers and listings until I found one that had a address listed then went to Google(r) maps and checked the street level view. The address showed a government looking building and no sign of a locksmith shop...another strike out.
Lastly, I called 411 and asked for a locksmith in that town and was given the same number that I had found on the internet earlier. Strike 3 blah.
Here I was the Director of Operations for the largest locksmith company and I'm struggling to find a locksmith for my cousin. I checked the www.findalocksmith.com site and they had no listing for that area or for the zip code either.
Left with no other real option, I resorted to calling the local police station (non-emergency number) explained my situation and asked for a referral for a real local locksmith. The dispatcher gave me a local number and I called them to get some help.
When I called the locksmith I explained who I was and what was going on with my cousin. We also discussed how his local internet had been over-run with fake listings, he stated that there were actually only two locksmiths within a 25 mile radius of that town and was candid enough to tell me the name of the other locksmith.
He took care of my cousin at a great price and also inquired about becoming a Pop-A-Lock provider.
At the end of this episode I'm still left with only two ways of really getting a 'real' locksmith:
1. Call 1-800-Popalock (1-800-767-2562) if we have a provider we can tell you immediately without having to search.
2. Go to find a locksmith on our Popalock.com page
3. Or call the local non-emergency number for police or fire and ask for a referral.
So many of the other local names are so close aaaaa1aaaaa Locksmith could be a real local or it could be scammer, at this point is almost impossible to tell.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
New Orleans Locksmith Pop-A-Lock
New Orleans is one of the flagship cities for Pop-A-Lock. It one of the first markets that was developed in the franchise system and continues to be a leader. I've had the pleasure of working for Pop-A-Lock of New Orleans back in 2002-2004 before transferring to the Las Vegas Pop-A-Lock.
The work crew in New Orleans is very stable, if you used Pop-A-Lock 5 years ago, chances are that you will have the same technician service you if you are in the same area. I've done ride along with a number of technicians and locksmiths in the big easy and the level of knowledge of the city is stunning. I'm not talking just about knowing major areas and major commercial areas, I mean down to in depth knowledge of residential streets and convoluted industrial areas.
The organization of the city is based on well thought out zones that are staffed with overlapping coverage. The CBD, Metarie, Kenner, Gretna, Westwego and even down to Chalmette are densely covered with service people. The filter of time has resulted in a very strong operations strategy with extremely well trained and seasoned veterans working the city.
Seeing this operation from the inside out, I can tell you that 'old fashioned' customer service drives the entire business. If you call and say that you have locked your child in your vehicle, the entire city reorganizes to get you help. Regardless of what they are doing, where they are going, the closest couple of people start immediately heading over to help you, usually more than one is dispatched in case they run into traffic. I've always thought that people simply would not believe the level of dedication by both the management but down to the individual locksmiths to legitimately take care of people.
Every year I have the opportunity to work with the New Orleans Locksmiths to do continuing education. We cover all the fundamentals of Lock Bypass, Life Safety Considerations, Authorization for Entry as well as new locks and techniques that have developed over the past year. The irony is that I usually learn as much from this experience as the locksmiths do, they all have interesting stories of 'exceptions to the rule' and unusual conditions which jobs had to be completed.
New Orleans can cut and program nearly any type of key. They recently invested in the technology to cut laser type keys such as BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Audi and Lexus. This really rounded out complete locksmith service for the area. I know it may sound a bit corny but one of the most irritating things for a locksmith is to have to tell a customer, "Sorry, we can't help you." Particularly in areas like New Orleans, where the individual locksmiths take their work so personal and take the view that their customers are real people with real problems and not just 'somebody calling'.
If you have ever had service from Pop-A-Lock of New Orleans, please feel free to post a comment to back up what I'm saying or just send a comment to me directly. The thank you letters that we get from customers are held in such high regard and are distributed down to the techs. (We have software that records the details of every call we take and the owner can look up any call to see who did it, even if it is several years old).
You can learn more about the #1 New Orleans locksmith by visiting their local website www.locksmithneworleans.com or by visiting the corporate home page for Pop-A-Lock www.popalock.com.
The work crew in New Orleans is very stable, if you used Pop-A-Lock 5 years ago, chances are that you will have the same technician service you if you are in the same area. I've done ride along with a number of technicians and locksmiths in the big easy and the level of knowledge of the city is stunning. I'm not talking just about knowing major areas and major commercial areas, I mean down to in depth knowledge of residential streets and convoluted industrial areas.
The organization of the city is based on well thought out zones that are staffed with overlapping coverage. The CBD, Metarie, Kenner, Gretna, Westwego and even down to Chalmette are densely covered with service people. The filter of time has resulted in a very strong operations strategy with extremely well trained and seasoned veterans working the city.
Seeing this operation from the inside out, I can tell you that 'old fashioned' customer service drives the entire business. If you call and say that you have locked your child in your vehicle, the entire city reorganizes to get you help. Regardless of what they are doing, where they are going, the closest couple of people start immediately heading over to help you, usually more than one is dispatched in case they run into traffic. I've always thought that people simply would not believe the level of dedication by both the management but down to the individual locksmiths to legitimately take care of people.
Every year I have the opportunity to work with the New Orleans Locksmiths to do continuing education. We cover all the fundamentals of Lock Bypass, Life Safety Considerations, Authorization for Entry as well as new locks and techniques that have developed over the past year. The irony is that I usually learn as much from this experience as the locksmiths do, they all have interesting stories of 'exceptions to the rule' and unusual conditions which jobs had to be completed.
New Orleans can cut and program nearly any type of key. They recently invested in the technology to cut laser type keys such as BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Audi and Lexus. This really rounded out complete locksmith service for the area. I know it may sound a bit corny but one of the most irritating things for a locksmith is to have to tell a customer, "Sorry, we can't help you." Particularly in areas like New Orleans, where the individual locksmiths take their work so personal and take the view that their customers are real people with real problems and not just 'somebody calling'.
If you have ever had service from Pop-A-Lock of New Orleans, please feel free to post a comment to back up what I'm saying or just send a comment to me directly. The thank you letters that we get from customers are held in such high regard and are distributed down to the techs. (We have software that records the details of every call we take and the owner can look up any call to see who did it, even if it is several years old).
You can learn more about the #1 New Orleans locksmith by visiting their local website www.locksmithneworleans.com or by visiting the corporate home page for Pop-A-Lock www.popalock.com.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Child Locked in Vehicle letter.
I hope I can pass along locksmith's compassion
Recently, I had the misfortune of accidentally locking my keys in my car, with my 1-and-a-half-year-old son inside. Although I knew my son was OK and I was right there and he could see me, this was an uncomfortable situation for me as a mother.
I would like to thank Kirk, of Pop-A-Lock Locksmith/Lockout Services for his kindness in responding to my frantic call, and for unlocking my vehicle and not charging me when he saw that my toddler was crying in the car. I was so touched by his compassion, and I hope I can pass it on in some way. I hope that anyone who needs a locksmith will give this kind man their business. Times are tough, and I am sure he could use it. Thank you, Kirk!
CHRISTY, Boise
Recently, I had the misfortune of accidentally locking my keys in my car, with my 1-and-a-half-year-old son inside. Although I knew my son was OK and I was right there and he could see me, this was an uncomfortable situation for me as a mother.
I would like to thank Kirk, of Pop-A-Lock Locksmith/Lockout Services for his kindness in responding to my frantic call, and for unlocking my vehicle and not charging me when he saw that my toddler was crying in the car. I was so touched by his compassion, and I hope I can pass it on in some way. I hope that anyone who needs a locksmith will give this kind man their business. Times are tough, and I am sure he could use it. Thank you, Kirk!
CHRISTY, Boise
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Locksmiths vs Hackers
Over the past few years there has been an emerging culture of 'locksport' enthusiast. The stereotype that has come out of that is the 'hacker who picks locks better than a locksmith'. There have been a number of articles on this movement in popular internet webzines. One that recently caught my eye was This one: Locksmiths Hate Geeks.
As most rumors do, this has a grain of truth to it. Because of the internet, the fundamentals of lockpicking are more readily available to the general public and people who or interested in subversive topics are likely to be attracted to both 'hacking' and 'lockpicking'. Combine the element of some High IQ filters and add 'competition' to the mix, you end up with a quite interesting group of people who are very proficient at picking (and impressioning too).
Personally, I find the whole topic pretty silly. Being a locksmith has far more to do with being ready to help a customer at a fair price anytime day or night than it has to do with lockpicking. Newsflash to the geeks, comparing locksport to locksmithing is like comparing running fast to playing professional football. Most of you will outgrow the interest. Newsflash to the locksmiths: Hire these geeks, they will probably make good locksmiths.
Geeks usually meet many of the requirements of being a good locksmith: curious, technical in nature, don't want to work in a repetitive mindless job, they like challenges, like learning new things, don't have huge aspirations of owning the corporate world and they are good with numbers and computers.
To be clear, 'hacking' for criminal purposes is against the law and those people should be prosecuted. 'Hacking type' refers to someone with knowledge and skills of finding work arounds for electronic security, they have professional people who work for companies to identify problems in systems and software and serve a valuable purpose like the gentleman described below.
Barry Wels is one of the legends in the 'underground' of lock bypass. I've personally met Barry and exchanged information with him while working on training for a Spanish company we were assisting to get into business. He had some invaluable information on European locks and I shared some feedback on some of the other species of locks that I was encountering down there.
Barry is probably the Diety...or at least a Demi-God of the underground 'locksport' community. I have personally heard people demonize him, particularly for releasing information about 'bump keys' to the public.
The root of the argument is over 'Disclosure'. Disclosure refers to the idea of 'blabbing' about a security flaws when you find them. This is the real division between the geeks and the locksmiths, not 'lockpick envy' as the article above might suggest. The geeks seem to represent Disclosure and locksmiths don't want the information in the wrong hands.
I personally am torn on 'Disclosure', I see validity in both points of view. I don't want anybody disclosing my Pin number on the internet. Yet if Barry and his gang figure out that someone can hack into my bank account or my phone...I want them to identify the problem and make the people responsible for it to FIX IT. The fact is that most companies such as software devs, internet devs and lock companies are often slow to react to 'limited disclosure' efforts. Releasing security flaws to the 'public domain' often causes immediate reactions to fix the problem.
But there is a point when it goes too far. If I found out Barry was coaching individuals who were committing crimes, he should be held accountable. That is the big grey area: If the little teenage girl that is often show bumping open Medeco(r) locks goes out and commits a crime by bumping open some jewelry store lock...is the person who taught her those skills a co-conspirator and going to get in trouble. You would think 'uh, Maybe' but consider: Would a rifle range instructor from the Marine Corps be held responsible for President Kennedy's death?
Even within the 'underground' the term 'responsible disclosure' has begun to circulate more, I don't know if that has been motivated by the hovering possibility of litigation by some manufacturer or if that whole side of the camp is maturing with age, either way it is good to hear that some discretion is gaining popularity.
Back to Barry, Barry is a Genius (yes with a capitol G). Barry has been mischaracterized as a 'hacker' when in fact his real life's work is quite the opposite, he works on real security. His lockpicking and bypass seems to be more of a fascination and passion. Barry also happens to be a world class impressionist.
Barry works for Cryptophone, which their website describes as: GSMK CryptoPhones are the first and only fully trustworthy solution for completely confidential mobile phone calls. That is a pretty big claim, especially for someone who's life is centered around dispelling very similar claims.
To me the most interesting thing about the whole issue is that in his work, Barry embraces the very sword that he swings at various locking devices, they release their source code for review by peers...they dare people (and probably welcome people to try) to 'hack' it. "Here is our claim: It is secure. Here is our data: See if knowing HOW we secure it helps you hack it." No security through obscurity with that. However, I'm sure there are those who would savor a bit of the irony if the technology that secures their secure phone could be hacked and shown on the internet.
Consider this ethical dillema:
I wonder what would happen if Barry himself, discovered a flaw, even post production, of their phone that would trigger a massive recall if 'full disclosure' were made. If only he knew about it, would he 'out' his own product. Any non-disclosure documents/contracts aside...I bet he probably would.
For all the negative comments I've heard about 'those hackers' giving away all the lock secrets, I have to say that the idea of 'disclosure' reeks of integrity. They really have an open architecture approach that can serve a purpose.
The ugly truth is that nothing is truly secure, there will always be a 'bypass' or workaround to some measure. "Social Engineering" will always be a hole for sure.
Yet, the bell is rung, you have to hide things in plain sight it seems. It is true people need better locks on their doors. I personally think that some people in the 'disclosure community' are not really interested in 'helping humanity' by forcing people/manufacturers to improve their security. I think they have found a drum that they can beat and get a bit of attention. But that is their business and it is not for me to judge if it is right or wrong lest judge their motives.
However, I suspect that one of the 'disclosure guys' will one day utter the magic words, "...but if you pay me $$$, no one has to know about the problem." At that point the 'integrity' part is gone and they will join that 'long grey line', it turns into blackmail. I'm sure someone will try it one day, the opportunity is just too obvious for someone NOT to do it.
Security comes down to common sense and budget. Do you want a house that is secure against typical attacks or do want a house that Barry Wels couldn't get into. If you want the latter, you should probably contract Barry to build it for you...it might take 20 years and cost a billion dollars but he could probably do it.
The only Nationwide Trusted Locksmith
A good quality lock that resist 'real world' attacks such as kicking and prying is the Ultimate Lock. It can be fitted with most types of cylinders, the security of the Ultimate lock is not in the keyhole, it's in the construction of the dual locking bolt arrangement and the physics of kick resistance. Check it out at www.theultimatelock.com I have personally installed these devices and have tested them to my satisfaction. We have one on our own training center door.
As most rumors do, this has a grain of truth to it. Because of the internet, the fundamentals of lockpicking are more readily available to the general public and people who or interested in subversive topics are likely to be attracted to both 'hacking' and 'lockpicking'. Combine the element of some High IQ filters and add 'competition' to the mix, you end up with a quite interesting group of people who are very proficient at picking (and impressioning too).
Personally, I find the whole topic pretty silly. Being a locksmith has far more to do with being ready to help a customer at a fair price anytime day or night than it has to do with lockpicking. Newsflash to the geeks, comparing locksport to locksmithing is like comparing running fast to playing professional football. Most of you will outgrow the interest. Newsflash to the locksmiths: Hire these geeks, they will probably make good locksmiths.
Geeks usually meet many of the requirements of being a good locksmith: curious, technical in nature, don't want to work in a repetitive mindless job, they like challenges, like learning new things, don't have huge aspirations of owning the corporate world and they are good with numbers and computers.
To be clear, 'hacking' for criminal purposes is against the law and those people should be prosecuted. 'Hacking type' refers to someone with knowledge and skills of finding work arounds for electronic security, they have professional people who work for companies to identify problems in systems and software and serve a valuable purpose like the gentleman described below.
Barry Wels is one of the legends in the 'underground' of lock bypass. I've personally met Barry and exchanged information with him while working on training for a Spanish company we were assisting to get into business. He had some invaluable information on European locks and I shared some feedback on some of the other species of locks that I was encountering down there.
Barry is probably the Diety...or at least a Demi-God of the underground 'locksport' community. I have personally heard people demonize him, particularly for releasing information about 'bump keys' to the public.
The root of the argument is over 'Disclosure'. Disclosure refers to the idea of 'blabbing' about a security flaws when you find them. This is the real division between the geeks and the locksmiths, not 'lockpick envy' as the article above might suggest. The geeks seem to represent Disclosure and locksmiths don't want the information in the wrong hands.
I personally am torn on 'Disclosure', I see validity in both points of view. I don't want anybody disclosing my Pin number on the internet. Yet if Barry and his gang figure out that someone can hack into my bank account or my phone...I want them to identify the problem and make the people responsible for it to FIX IT. The fact is that most companies such as software devs, internet devs and lock companies are often slow to react to 'limited disclosure' efforts. Releasing security flaws to the 'public domain' often causes immediate reactions to fix the problem.
But there is a point when it goes too far. If I found out Barry was coaching individuals who were committing crimes, he should be held accountable. That is the big grey area: If the little teenage girl that is often show bumping open Medeco(r) locks goes out and commits a crime by bumping open some jewelry store lock...is the person who taught her those skills a co-conspirator and going to get in trouble. You would think 'uh, Maybe' but consider: Would a rifle range instructor from the Marine Corps be held responsible for President Kennedy's death?
Even within the 'underground' the term 'responsible disclosure' has begun to circulate more, I don't know if that has been motivated by the hovering possibility of litigation by some manufacturer or if that whole side of the camp is maturing with age, either way it is good to hear that some discretion is gaining popularity.
Back to Barry, Barry is a Genius (yes with a capitol G). Barry has been mischaracterized as a 'hacker' when in fact his real life's work is quite the opposite, he works on real security. His lockpicking and bypass seems to be more of a fascination and passion. Barry also happens to be a world class impressionist.
Barry works for Cryptophone, which their website describes as: GSMK CryptoPhones are the first and only fully trustworthy solution for completely confidential mobile phone calls. That is a pretty big claim, especially for someone who's life is centered around dispelling very similar claims.
To me the most interesting thing about the whole issue is that in his work, Barry embraces the very sword that he swings at various locking devices, they release their source code for review by peers...they dare people (and probably welcome people to try) to 'hack' it. "Here is our claim: It is secure. Here is our data: See if knowing HOW we secure it helps you hack it." No security through obscurity with that. However, I'm sure there are those who would savor a bit of the irony if the technology that secures their secure phone could be hacked and shown on the internet.
Consider this ethical dillema:
I wonder what would happen if Barry himself, discovered a flaw, even post production, of their phone that would trigger a massive recall if 'full disclosure' were made. If only he knew about it, would he 'out' his own product. Any non-disclosure documents/contracts aside...I bet he probably would.
For all the negative comments I've heard about 'those hackers' giving away all the lock secrets, I have to say that the idea of 'disclosure' reeks of integrity. They really have an open architecture approach that can serve a purpose.
The ugly truth is that nothing is truly secure, there will always be a 'bypass' or workaround to some measure. "Social Engineering" will always be a hole for sure.
Yet, the bell is rung, you have to hide things in plain sight it seems. It is true people need better locks on their doors. I personally think that some people in the 'disclosure community' are not really interested in 'helping humanity' by forcing people/manufacturers to improve their security. I think they have found a drum that they can beat and get a bit of attention. But that is their business and it is not for me to judge if it is right or wrong lest judge their motives.
However, I suspect that one of the 'disclosure guys' will one day utter the magic words, "...but if you pay me $$$, no one has to know about the problem." At that point the 'integrity' part is gone and they will join that 'long grey line', it turns into blackmail. I'm sure someone will try it one day, the opportunity is just too obvious for someone NOT to do it.
Security comes down to common sense and budget. Do you want a house that is secure against typical attacks or do want a house that Barry Wels couldn't get into. If you want the latter, you should probably contract Barry to build it for you...it might take 20 years and cost a billion dollars but he could probably do it.
The only Nationwide Trusted Locksmith
A good quality lock that resist 'real world' attacks such as kicking and prying is the Ultimate Lock. It can be fitted with most types of cylinders, the security of the Ultimate lock is not in the keyhole, it's in the construction of the dual locking bolt arrangement and the physics of kick resistance. Check it out at www.theultimatelock.com I have personally installed these devices and have tested them to my satisfaction. We have one on our own training center door.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
What does 'chip key' mean? How do I know if I have a 'chip key'?
A 'chip key' usually refers to one of two types of keys that have an electronic component to them. The first has a visible chip located on the key and is normally on a General Motors vehicle. This is called a Passkey system or VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). These appeared in 1986 on the Corvette and certain Cadillac models. The second type refers to a key with an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Device) located in the head of the key, these type are not normally visible unless the bow or head of the key is transparent.
Both of these systems add a layer of security to the vehicle by having the vehicle check the value of the electronic component on the key before allowing the vehicle to be started. Some systems prevent the vehicle from attempting to crank while others prevent the fuel system from working.
If you have the first type, VATS it is obvious because you can see the chip on the key. The other type is more difficult to determine because the RFID is embedded in the plastic head. The only real way to know for sure is to use an electronic device designed to detect the chip. You could destroy the key to see it but that would likely ruin the key and would be costly to replace.
One thing is for certain, you should always have at least three of these keys. Why three and not just two? In many vehicle systems you can program in a new key yourself but have to have at least 2 working master keys for the system to do it. If you get down to 1 working key then you will have to contact a service person such as a locksmith or automotive security specialist to program they key as special diagnostic equipment is needed to complete the task.
Does this really stop thieves? This is a percentage question, from an insurance carriers perspective the 'chip keys' or transponders have have eliminated a great deal of vehicle theft. But no security system can stop a well prepared thief, especially if they own a helicopter and just fly off with the car. Interestingly enough though, even if a vehicle is taken by force such as with a tow truck or helicopter the thief still has to 'restore driveaility' at some point by making the keys or bypassing the security system. Yes, they can do it but it is certainly a deterrent and adds real cost to their thieving operation.
If all keys are lost for a vehicle that has a chip on the key, you usually have two options: The dealer or a locksmith. Because the keys have to be programmed you cannot normally go to a dealer and pick up a key that will work the vehicle. You will usually have to have the vehicle TOWED to the dealer for them to service it. Most locksmiths however will come to the vehicle with all of the necessary machines, transponder key blanks and equipment to cut a key on-site to get you on your way immediately.
If you ever find yourself in need of extra keys, replacement keys or replacement remotes/key fobs such as found on newer vehicles make sure you call a bona fide locksmith. Look for a Pop-A-Lock(r) provider or an ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) locksmith. Always ask for the EXACT FINAL PRICE that you will have to pay including service charges, labor or any other 'fees'.
For a list of Pop-A-Lock locations and phone numbers please visit www.popalock.com or visit www.findalocksmith.com for an ALOA member in your area.
www.popalock.com
www.findalocksmith.com
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Virginia Locksmith Wars
The State of Virginia passed a very solid locksmith law. One of the best features of the law is that it was to be enforced by the Department of Criminal Justice...yea, people with badges.
Now as a result of who knows what, they are taking a vote to put it under a much less 'enforcement oriented' contractors type board.
This will hurt the locksmiths a little, but will mostly hurt the people of Virginia. This locksmith scamming stuff is completely out of hand and the states need laws with Teeth to fight these con men.
Below is a list of Congresspersons and Senators, if you are a Virginia resident and are concerned about this situation please call one of these guys and at least express your opinion for Teeth in the law!
Residents of Virginia are represented in Congress by 2 Senators and 11 Representatives.
Member Name DC Phone DC FAX
Senator James Webb (D- VA) 202-224-4024 202-228-6363
Senator Mark Warner (D- VA) 202-224-2023 202-224-6295
Representative Robert J. Wittman (R - 01) 202-225-4261 202-225-4382
Representative Glenn Nye, III (D - 02) 202-225-4215 202-225-4218
Representative Robert C. Scott (D - 03) 202-225-8351 202-225-8354
Representative J. Randy Forbes (R - 04) 202-225-6365 202-226-1170
Representative Tom Perriello (D - 05) 202-225-4711 202-225-5681
Representative Bob Goodlatte (R - 06) 202-225-5431 202-225-9681
Representative Eric I. Cantor (R - 07) 202-225-2815 202-225-0011
Representative James P. Moran (D - 08) 202-225-4376 202-225-0017
Representative Rick Boucher (D - 09) 202-225-3861 202-225-0442
Representative Frank R. Wolf (R - 10) 202-225-5136 202-225-0437
Representative Gerry Connolly (D - 11) 202-225-1492 202-225-3071
Now as a result of who knows what, they are taking a vote to put it under a much less 'enforcement oriented' contractors type board.
This will hurt the locksmiths a little, but will mostly hurt the people of Virginia. This locksmith scamming stuff is completely out of hand and the states need laws with Teeth to fight these con men.
Below is a list of Congresspersons and Senators, if you are a Virginia resident and are concerned about this situation please call one of these guys and at least express your opinion for Teeth in the law!
Residents of Virginia are represented in Congress by 2 Senators and 11 Representatives.
Member Name DC Phone DC FAX
Senator James Webb (D- VA) 202-224-4024 202-228-6363
Senator Mark Warner (D- VA) 202-224-2023 202-224-6295
Representative Robert J. Wittman (R - 01) 202-225-4261 202-225-4382
Representative Glenn Nye, III (D - 02) 202-225-4215 202-225-4218
Representative Robert C. Scott (D - 03) 202-225-8351 202-225-8354
Representative J. Randy Forbes (R - 04) 202-225-6365 202-226-1170
Representative Tom Perriello (D - 05) 202-225-4711 202-225-5681
Representative Bob Goodlatte (R - 06) 202-225-5431 202-225-9681
Representative Eric I. Cantor (R - 07) 202-225-2815 202-225-0011
Representative James P. Moran (D - 08) 202-225-4376 202-225-0017
Representative Rick Boucher (D - 09) 202-225-3861 202-225-0442
Representative Frank R. Wolf (R - 10) 202-225-5136 202-225-0437
Representative Gerry Connolly (D - 11) 202-225-1492 202-225-3071
Monday, January 26, 2009
Locksmith Weekend Training in Brownsville, Tx
Typical Pop-A-Lock Weekend
1. Drove from Louisiana down to Brownsville, tx to do some training with the local franchise guys down there. I packed up a bunch of training locks and materials, tools and machines into my little Scion and headed out on I-10.
2. I stopped in Houston to visit with the local franchisee. He has been very happy with the locksmiths on staff down there and particularly one who has really taken the ball and run with it. I believe he and his nephew post here as well.
3. I got into Brownsville around 1am and checked into the hotel. They had karaoke night going on and the place was packed. A young Hispanic girl was belting out a cool version of Kid Rock's "all summer long" while I was checking in.
4. I met up with Brian, Raymond and Roger. They have all been with Pop-A-Lock since they started in Brownsville back in 1997. They were early so we got started a little early on the class. They have been doing straight teching no locksmiting but are licensed non-the-less.
5. We covered a lot of material, working from a general Res/Comm curriculum focusing on the hands-on practice, especially on dis-assembly when no key is present.
6. The topics were:
a. Texas Law, Technical Integrity and Fair Business practices. (gleaned from Aloa's code of ethics and the North Carolina materials alluding to the same.
b. ADA and Life Safety
c. Verification of Authorization
d. Key Blank Identification
e. Codes and Code Machines
f. Hand Filing and fundamentals of impressioning
g. Professional Opening techniques and picking refresher, picking, Pickgun, Adams Rite Bypass, F-Series bypass tool from Laser security products, Bumping, loiding, other miscellaneous bypass methods.
h. Service of KW Classic, KW Titan/Ultra Max, KW Smart Key, SC A series, Sc F series, Weiser, Weslock, Mortise, Rim, AL series, L series schlage mortise case locks, 1850 and 4700 series Adams Rite, touch pad type exit devices and a discussion of 'removal of deadbolts with no visible screws'.
i. Installation techniques and tools.
j. Dispatch methodologies and technology
k. Integration of LON network providers to daily operations.
7. We finished up very late. All the guys were very interested in the material and showed a lot of motivation during the class. I could tell that Brian was the type with a natural interest in the industry and was very eager to know more and wants more and deeper training.
When we field stripped the AL series schlage down from thumb turn to keyway they get to see EXACTLY how the lock works and always seems to be a highlight of a class.
8. We ate at a little hole in the wall type BBQ place called 'Fat Daddy's', a most appropriate name as I'm sure I would gain 50lbs if I lived nearby. I didn't think there was any way I would be able to finish the giant pile of meat they put on that plate but I got it done! If ever down in Brownsville area it's worth a lunch stop for sure.
9. After class, we spent some time talking shop and future goals of the location. I learn as much from a class as the students do, especially when working with veteran techs. I always get a new perspective on things and pick up tips, tricks and thought processes that I didn't have before.
10. I got back to hotel, caught up on the forums and email and shut it down for the night.
11. I got on the road this morning about 6am. It's about 615 miles and I really don't like to speed so I'll be home mid-afternoon. I've got some heavy weeks coming up, always seems like the first of the year brings new projects, efforts and 'wrap ups' from the previous year. One of the main missions right now is working with the investigators and the attorney's against the scammers. We've got a big technical project in the works and the national accounts program is a source of constant focus/distraction and coordination and work!
1. Drove from Louisiana down to Brownsville, tx to do some training with the local franchise guys down there. I packed up a bunch of training locks and materials, tools and machines into my little Scion and headed out on I-10.
2. I stopped in Houston to visit with the local franchisee. He has been very happy with the locksmiths on staff down there and particularly one who has really taken the ball and run with it. I believe he and his nephew post here as well.
3. I got into Brownsville around 1am and checked into the hotel. They had karaoke night going on and the place was packed. A young Hispanic girl was belting out a cool version of Kid Rock's "all summer long" while I was checking in.
4. I met up with Brian, Raymond and Roger. They have all been with Pop-A-Lock since they started in Brownsville back in 1997. They were early so we got started a little early on the class. They have been doing straight teching no locksmiting but are licensed non-the-less.
5. We covered a lot of material, working from a general Res/Comm curriculum focusing on the hands-on practice, especially on dis-assembly when no key is present.
6. The topics were:
a. Texas Law, Technical Integrity and Fair Business practices. (gleaned from Aloa's code of ethics and the North Carolina materials alluding to the same.
b. ADA and Life Safety
c. Verification of Authorization
d. Key Blank Identification
e. Codes and Code Machines
f. Hand Filing and fundamentals of impressioning
g. Professional Opening techniques and picking refresher, picking, Pickgun, Adams Rite Bypass, F-Series bypass tool from Laser security products, Bumping, loiding, other miscellaneous bypass methods.
h. Service of KW Classic, KW Titan/Ultra Max, KW Smart Key, SC A series, Sc F series, Weiser, Weslock, Mortise, Rim, AL series, L series schlage mortise case locks, 1850 and 4700 series Adams Rite, touch pad type exit devices and a discussion of 'removal of deadbolts with no visible screws'.
i. Installation techniques and tools.
j. Dispatch methodologies and technology
k. Integration of LON network providers to daily operations.
7. We finished up very late. All the guys were very interested in the material and showed a lot of motivation during the class. I could tell that Brian was the type with a natural interest in the industry and was very eager to know more and wants more and deeper training.
When we field stripped the AL series schlage down from thumb turn to keyway they get to see EXACTLY how the lock works and always seems to be a highlight of a class.
8. We ate at a little hole in the wall type BBQ place called 'Fat Daddy's', a most appropriate name as I'm sure I would gain 50lbs if I lived nearby. I didn't think there was any way I would be able to finish the giant pile of meat they put on that plate but I got it done! If ever down in Brownsville area it's worth a lunch stop for sure.
9. After class, we spent some time talking shop and future goals of the location. I learn as much from a class as the students do, especially when working with veteran techs. I always get a new perspective on things and pick up tips, tricks and thought processes that I didn't have before.
10. I got back to hotel, caught up on the forums and email and shut it down for the night.
11. I got on the road this morning about 6am. It's about 615 miles and I really don't like to speed so I'll be home mid-afternoon. I've got some heavy weeks coming up, always seems like the first of the year brings new projects, efforts and 'wrap ups' from the previous year. One of the main missions right now is working with the investigators and the attorney's against the scammers. We've got a big technical project in the works and the national accounts program is a source of constant focus/distraction and coordination and work!
Most Valuable Locksmith of the Year: Mike Esposito
Subject: US Lock/Pop-A-Lock Most Valuable Locksmith Award
The franchisor has not historically implemented a system-wide employee of the year award, this is done locally within each market. However, in recognition of truly distinguishing service, this year SFA has identified a franchise employee who has contributed a great deal of personal time, effort and energy in order to improve the Pop-A-Lock system as a whole.
Mike Esposito, Orlando employee number ORL-034 has exemplified the spirit of what our locksmith division seeks to be, a unified force that shares experience and best practices to the benefit of all. Mike's dedication to servicing the franchise customers, contributions to the technical body of knowledge for the entire system, his willingness to assist his fellow locksmiths, the respect that he has garnered for Pop-A-Lock from outside locksmiths and his contributions towards the National/Multi-Regional accounts program has distinguished him from his peers.
Particularly, Mike has contributed several dozen comments and technical feedback articles both to the Times program directly as well as through separate email contact with corporate. This detailed feedback from 'real world' situations has often confirmed or corrected issues in the technical material and is invaluable for shaping our technical practices. If 1% of our locksmiths provided the same amount of accurate data back to corporate for inclusion and distribution, we would have an untouchable level of reference material at our disposal.
In recognition of his efforts and support of the Pop-A-Lock system, he is being awarded with both a certificate of recognition from Pop-A-Lock and a generous gift certificate from our corporate sustaining partner US Lock and a full set of High-Security Picks.
Robert J Reynolds CPL, CPS
Director of Operations
The franchisor has not historically implemented a system-wide employee of the year award, this is done locally within each market. However, in recognition of truly distinguishing service, this year SFA has identified a franchise employee who has contributed a great deal of personal time, effort and energy in order to improve the Pop-A-Lock system as a whole.
Mike Esposito, Orlando employee number ORL-034 has exemplified the spirit of what our locksmith division seeks to be, a unified force that shares experience and best practices to the benefit of all. Mike's dedication to servicing the franchise customers, contributions to the technical body of knowledge for the entire system, his willingness to assist his fellow locksmiths, the respect that he has garnered for Pop-A-Lock from outside locksmiths and his contributions towards the National/Multi-Regional accounts program has distinguished him from his peers.
Particularly, Mike has contributed several dozen comments and technical feedback articles both to the Times program directly as well as through separate email contact with corporate. This detailed feedback from 'real world' situations has often confirmed or corrected issues in the technical material and is invaluable for shaping our technical practices. If 1% of our locksmiths provided the same amount of accurate data back to corporate for inclusion and distribution, we would have an untouchable level of reference material at our disposal.
In recognition of his efforts and support of the Pop-A-Lock system, he is being awarded with both a certificate of recognition from Pop-A-Lock and a generous gift certificate from our corporate sustaining partner US Lock and a full set of High-Security Picks.
Robert J Reynolds CPL, CPS
Director of Operations
Locksmith Learning
Locksmithing is best learned through apprenticeship. It is one of those trades that you could sit through HOURS and HOURS of lectures on locksmith topics and not really be able to go out and earn a living at it. Most locksmiths are graduates of the school of hard knocks, they learned by doing...and the learning never stops.
There are some wonderful prepatory classes that you can take to get a grasp of the fundamentals. Many people are familiar with the famous Foley-Belsaw home study correspondence course, it even came with training aids and key machine. There are some fine in-house courses from Lockmasters (LSI), North BennetSchool, Cothrons Safe and Lock to name a few. The Associated Locksmiths of America has a 5 and 6 day, Basic Locksmith Course course that presents a very good overview and includes a good bit of hands-on learning during the course. Red Deer College in Alberta has one of the finest courses available anywhere in the world.
It is VERY wise to participate in one of these type of 'Intro' courses if you are getting into the industry, but once you hit the streets...the REAL learning begins. The funny thing is...it never ends. Security is a dynamic concept, it is always changing, the dog is always chasing its tail.
If you are one of the lucky ones who is 'brought in' to the profession by a seasoned locksmith you have lots of advantages over 'going it alone'. In locksmithing there is a true apprentice-master relationship, the dependency is usually glaringly obvious especially over the first year or so. In modern society with mobile phones on all our hips, 'help' is often only a phone call away, I have often pondered how tough it must have been just 20 years ago. An experienced locksmith can save you possibly hours of work, with just a few words to help you get past 'The sticking point'.
The sticking point: A particular aspect of a task that can result in a long process of trial and error, unless some specific secret or trick is known that can quickly resolve the problem.
The terms 'secret' isn't really what many might think, like "The secret opening method or technique'. Sometimes the secret can be a preventative action that helps keep a problem from happening. An example would be the master knowing that a particular safe has a glass relocker, that once shattered will cause the opening to become VERY time consuming. Another simpler example is the use of adhesives or tape to hold a template in place insead of trying to use three hands to do a job.
Key Blank identification is another area that sometimes defies study. A novice locksmith may have to due an inordinate amount of trial and error looking on a keyboard or in a key blank catalog for a match, versus a master that can visually recall not only the exact blank by looking at the bow of the key and the milling but immediately find it on the wall.
Even a relatively short difference in time say a 5 minute task for the apprentice versus a 1 minute task for the master can make a tremendous difference in what the two can accomplish in a day...those 5 minutes of 'flubbing' can really add up.
In addition to the convienience of the cell phone, another powerful tool has become available to the locksmith in the field...other locksmiths. Particularly other locksmiths who have access to the internet througout the day. This inter-locksmith communication started very early on with usergroups and has evolved into massive communities of locksmiths that have embraced the idea of making each others lives just a little bit easier by sharing what they know.
www.clearstar.com was an early front runner in the forums. Each site has it's own distinct personality as well as some pretty distinct personalities from the members. Clearstar is particularly recognized as a hub for Safe and Vault technicians but all fields, specialties and experience levels are represented. Clearstar is one of the few sites that I don't see people scolded for asking the same question even if it has already been answered in previous post. Other industries have forums that will quickly chastise 'newbies' for asking old questions. I've noticed that within Clearstar this is far more tolerated and as a result probably goes a long way to making new members feel 'welcome' and not 'stupid' for not knowing how to effectively search.
www.keypro.com was developed by Jim 'Jameson's' Hetchler and caters to Automotive Specialist but has a good mix of skillsets. Because of some technological featues of the site, questions are often answered VERY quickly. Without a doubt some of the most knowledgeable people on the subject of automotive security congregate there.
www.locksmithcommunity.com is an evolution from the original site www.internetlocksmith.com. It covers a huge variety of subjects on every area of locksmithing. Known for it's now famous (infamous?) Dog Pound, a sort of 'time out' area for members when discussion get a little to heated. Many members use a signature avatar pose with their hands behind their heads. As a member the excellent search feature allows you to instantly search through YEARS of detailed questions, answers and explinations...and probably a few expletives as well. Probably the most colorful of the forums as well as home to some of the most finely tuned expertise in the world of locksmithing.
In addition to the forums, the internet has opened up a world of information through the doors of the lock manufacturers and tool manufactuers homepages. www.kaba-ilco.com has countless scores of technical reference materials on keys, machines locks and tools. What once would have taken rows and rows of shelves in the form of catalogs, manuals and books can now be accessed in a matter of seconds through the internet and ebooks.
However, with all of the technology and all of the helps and assist, sometimes it just comes down to a locksmith, his tool bag and his common sense. Thus far reality has not come up with a substitute for any of those three...oh, and On-star(r) doesn't count either because it doesn't work under a shade tree :)
There are some wonderful prepatory classes that you can take to get a grasp of the fundamentals. Many people are familiar with the famous Foley-Belsaw home study correspondence course, it even came with training aids and key machine. There are some fine in-house courses from Lockmasters (LSI), North BennetSchool, Cothrons Safe and Lock to name a few. The Associated Locksmiths of America has a 5 and 6 day, Basic Locksmith Course course that presents a very good overview and includes a good bit of hands-on learning during the course. Red Deer College in Alberta has one of the finest courses available anywhere in the world.
It is VERY wise to participate in one of these type of 'Intro' courses if you are getting into the industry, but once you hit the streets...the REAL learning begins. The funny thing is...it never ends. Security is a dynamic concept, it is always changing, the dog is always chasing its tail.
If you are one of the lucky ones who is 'brought in' to the profession by a seasoned locksmith you have lots of advantages over 'going it alone'. In locksmithing there is a true apprentice-master relationship, the dependency is usually glaringly obvious especially over the first year or so. In modern society with mobile phones on all our hips, 'help' is often only a phone call away, I have often pondered how tough it must have been just 20 years ago. An experienced locksmith can save you possibly hours of work, with just a few words to help you get past 'The sticking point'.
The sticking point: A particular aspect of a task that can result in a long process of trial and error, unless some specific secret or trick is known that can quickly resolve the problem.
The terms 'secret' isn't really what many might think, like "The secret opening method or technique'. Sometimes the secret can be a preventative action that helps keep a problem from happening. An example would be the master knowing that a particular safe has a glass relocker, that once shattered will cause the opening to become VERY time consuming. Another simpler example is the use of adhesives or tape to hold a template in place insead of trying to use three hands to do a job.
Key Blank identification is another area that sometimes defies study. A novice locksmith may have to due an inordinate amount of trial and error looking on a keyboard or in a key blank catalog for a match, versus a master that can visually recall not only the exact blank by looking at the bow of the key and the milling but immediately find it on the wall.
Even a relatively short difference in time say a 5 minute task for the apprentice versus a 1 minute task for the master can make a tremendous difference in what the two can accomplish in a day...those 5 minutes of 'flubbing' can really add up.
In addition to the convienience of the cell phone, another powerful tool has become available to the locksmith in the field...other locksmiths. Particularly other locksmiths who have access to the internet througout the day. This inter-locksmith communication started very early on with usergroups and has evolved into massive communities of locksmiths that have embraced the idea of making each others lives just a little bit easier by sharing what they know.
www.clearstar.com was an early front runner in the forums. Each site has it's own distinct personality as well as some pretty distinct personalities from the members. Clearstar is particularly recognized as a hub for Safe and Vault technicians but all fields, specialties and experience levels are represented. Clearstar is one of the few sites that I don't see people scolded for asking the same question even if it has already been answered in previous post. Other industries have forums that will quickly chastise 'newbies' for asking old questions. I've noticed that within Clearstar this is far more tolerated and as a result probably goes a long way to making new members feel 'welcome' and not 'stupid' for not knowing how to effectively search.
www.keypro.com was developed by Jim 'Jameson's' Hetchler and caters to Automotive Specialist but has a good mix of skillsets. Because of some technological featues of the site, questions are often answered VERY quickly. Without a doubt some of the most knowledgeable people on the subject of automotive security congregate there.
www.locksmithcommunity.com is an evolution from the original site www.internetlocksmith.com. It covers a huge variety of subjects on every area of locksmithing. Known for it's now famous (infamous?) Dog Pound, a sort of 'time out' area for members when discussion get a little to heated. Many members use a signature avatar pose with their hands behind their heads. As a member the excellent search feature allows you to instantly search through YEARS of detailed questions, answers and explinations...and probably a few expletives as well. Probably the most colorful of the forums as well as home to some of the most finely tuned expertise in the world of locksmithing.
In addition to the forums, the internet has opened up a world of information through the doors of the lock manufacturers and tool manufactuers homepages. www.kaba-ilco.com has countless scores of technical reference materials on keys, machines locks and tools. What once would have taken rows and rows of shelves in the form of catalogs, manuals and books can now be accessed in a matter of seconds through the internet and ebooks.
However, with all of the technology and all of the helps and assist, sometimes it just comes down to a locksmith, his tool bag and his common sense. Thus far reality has not come up with a substitute for any of those three...oh, and On-star(r) doesn't count either because it doesn't work under a shade tree :)
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Aloa and the PRP
ALOA stands for the Associated Locksmiths of America. They are the largest organization of locksmiths in the United States, with nearly 8000 members.
Aloa employs a set of examinations to determine knowledge level of locksmiths on many different subjects. This program is called the PRP or Proficiency Registry Program.
The PRP results in various designations based on an individuals record of passing the various exam categories.
The designations awarded through PRP are RL (Registered Locksmith), CRL (Certified Registered Locksmith), CPL (Certified Professional Locksmith) and CML (Certified Master Locksmith). The organization SAVTA (Safe and Vault Technology Association) also has two designations CPS (Certified Professional Safe Technician) and CMST (Certified Master Safe Technician).
The following is from the ALOA certification FAQ:
The Registered Locksmith (RL) designation does not require testing. Is this designation a certification?
The Registered Locksmith (RL) designation is recognition of experience or training but because there is not an examination it is not a certification. It has been awarded for various accomplishments such as 10 years of ALOA membership which provided for grandfathering when the program was first initiated in 1985, the taking of 12 ALOA Continuing Education(ACE) classes (since 1992) or equivalent and successfully completing the ALOA Basic Locksmithing Course. It is not a path towards certification. It is an ALOA recognized designation and thus meets the requirements of achieving an ALOA recognized designation for ALOA membership.
Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL)
The first level testing for locksmith certification is Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL). A Certified Registered Locksmith is required to pass the ten mandatory categories and at least two specialized electives of his choice. The mandatory section covers the following topics:
Codes and Code Equipment
Cylinder Servicing
Key Blank Identification
Key Duplication
Key Impressioning
Professional Lock Opening Techniques
Lockset Functions
Lockset Servicing
Basic Master Keying
Cabinet, Furniture and Mailbox Locks
Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL)
The 2nd level of locksmith testing for certification is Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL). To qualify for the designation Certified Professional Locksmith an individual has had to earn the CRL designation and have passed examinations in an additional twelve elective categories.
Certified Master Locksmith (CML)
The last tier of testing of locksmith certification is Certified Master Locksmith (CML). To qualify for the designation of Certified Master Locksmith and individual must have earned the designation of CPL and passed an additional 9 electives from the list below.
So a CML will have passed the 10 Mandatory categories + 2 Electives (CRL Level) + 12 Electives (CPL Level) and 9 Electives (CML Level) for a total of : 22 electives. There are currently 26 electives total so 84.6% of the total electives will have been passed to obtain the CML. Aloa may in the future add electives.
Domestic Automotive
Foreign Automotive
Door Closers
Life Safety Codes
High Security Cylinder Servicing
Special Application Cylinder Servicing
Tubular Key Cylinder Servicing
Basic Electricity
Exit Hardware and Exit Alarms
Keyless Mechanical Locks
Lever Tumbler/Non-Safe Deposit Locks
Motorcycle Locks
Safe Combination Locks
Safe Deposit Locks
Time Locks
Lockset Installation
Advanced Master Keying
Safe Installation
Safe Opening and Servicing
Interchangeable Core Fundamentals
Small Format Interchangeable Core
Large Format Interchangeable Core
Electromechanical Access Control
Related Door Hardware
Alarms
Detention Locking Systems
The intent: The PRP system serves a number of purposes. It has helped to organize locksmith education by identifying specific categories that should be common to all locksmiths, it gives locksmiths a rough measure of their own knowledge so they can identify areas that require further study and ultimately can provide consumers with some information about the knowledge level and test taking ability of a locksmith when making a decision to contract for service.
Controversy: The PRP system has received multiple criticisms from the locksmith community because it is a pencil and paper test with no hands on portion. Some locksmiths have vocalized that the test is not a fair measure of their competency because they don't perform well on written examinations but through the evidence of their longstanding operation as a locksmith they are competent despite not doing well or not participating in the exams.
I have personally heard from test developers working in the code industry that the PRP system and grading procedures should be reviewed by professional psychometricians periodically for revision. I do not know the entire history and development of the PRP from a test development standpoint but I do know that the development of testing is a hard science with many techniques for validating questions, answers and scoring procedures. Testing Measures Standards
Personal Opinion: The PRP is a great start to an otherwise herculean task. No testing system is perfect and the deployment of a hands on portion of the exam would be financially and logistically challenging to say the least. The implementation of task, conditions and standards hands on testing would be most easily accomplished as 'end of class' or 'during class' exams that are performed within the context of an educational event. Adding new dimensions to the designations such as a numbering system indicating completed hands on exams would be possible.
Based on the general lack of recogntion from the general public to the existing PRP, the addition of this modification to the system would not be likely to result in much greater public awareness of the PRP system. However, this type of testing would benefit the locksmith community through improved classes and educational milliues ultimatley resulting in better locksmiths to serve the community.
On licensing: The PRP is used by some states and accepted by most states as evidence of competency for licensing purposes. This changes the nature of the PRP from being a system of professional development and a marketing tool for locksmiths into a legal requirement to operate a locksmith business in states that require it. This aspect of the PRP being used in trade regulation then invites new criticism to take on new standards.
The inclusion of hands on competency portions such as those used by many welding certificaiton systems, becomes more relevant to the intent of state licensing, which is to protect the public good and to attempt to ensure that locksmiths are at least prepared to perform a minimum standard of quality work.
The other side of the argument on the use of the PRP in locksmith licensing comes from veteran locksmiths who despite being in business for a long period of time, cannot pass the state based exams and may not be able to operate in their trade unless they pass some portion of an exam.
In essence, the question becomes: How do you create a fair system for all parties which measures 100% what is required but does not exclude competent indviduals that may not have the test taking skills or particular skills measured by the system, some of which may not be applicable in their business or may not be viewed as critical by fire, life safety or code officials within a state, who may be tasked with trying to regulate the trade.
For example a test of a persons ability to generate or fit a key to vehicle, may have little relevance to a locksmith who only installs commercial and residential hardware and who may in fact not even advertise the service of automotive key generation to the public nor intend to do that task.
Some of the most critical applications such as exit device service and installation, ironically is often exhempted in most states for employees of general contractors who often have little or no training on installation of these systems.
Summary: The ALOA PRP system provides the locksmiths, the public and public officials with a tool to guage the competency of locksmiths, the degree to which that system does that has not been formally studied by a standards organization such as ISO to yield meaninful quantitative data that yields correlations to rate of failure, quality of work or other objective data. However, in the abscence of any system that has met the strictest criteria of test standards, a PRP designation does what it ultimatley purports to do: It indicates that an individual has participated in a systematic testing system and has met the requirements of that testing system.
Aloa employs a set of examinations to determine knowledge level of locksmiths on many different subjects. This program is called the PRP or Proficiency Registry Program.
The PRP results in various designations based on an individuals record of passing the various exam categories.
The designations awarded through PRP are RL (Registered Locksmith), CRL (Certified Registered Locksmith), CPL (Certified Professional Locksmith) and CML (Certified Master Locksmith). The organization SAVTA (Safe and Vault Technology Association) also has two designations CPS (Certified Professional Safe Technician) and CMST (Certified Master Safe Technician).
The following is from the ALOA certification FAQ:
The Registered Locksmith (RL) designation does not require testing. Is this designation a certification?
The Registered Locksmith (RL) designation is recognition of experience or training but because there is not an examination it is not a certification. It has been awarded for various accomplishments such as 10 years of ALOA membership which provided for grandfathering when the program was first initiated in 1985, the taking of 12 ALOA Continuing Education(ACE) classes (since 1992) or equivalent and successfully completing the ALOA Basic Locksmithing Course. It is not a path towards certification. It is an ALOA recognized designation and thus meets the requirements of achieving an ALOA recognized designation for ALOA membership.
Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL)
The first level testing for locksmith certification is Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL). A Certified Registered Locksmith is required to pass the ten mandatory categories and at least two specialized electives of his choice. The mandatory section covers the following topics:
Codes and Code Equipment
Cylinder Servicing
Key Blank Identification
Key Duplication
Key Impressioning
Professional Lock Opening Techniques
Lockset Functions
Lockset Servicing
Basic Master Keying
Cabinet, Furniture and Mailbox Locks
Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL)
The 2nd level of locksmith testing for certification is Certified Professional Locksmith (CPL). To qualify for the designation Certified Professional Locksmith an individual has had to earn the CRL designation and have passed examinations in an additional twelve elective categories.
Certified Master Locksmith (CML)
The last tier of testing of locksmith certification is Certified Master Locksmith (CML). To qualify for the designation of Certified Master Locksmith and individual must have earned the designation of CPL and passed an additional 9 electives from the list below.
So a CML will have passed the 10 Mandatory categories + 2 Electives (CRL Level) + 12 Electives (CPL Level) and 9 Electives (CML Level) for a total of : 22 electives. There are currently 26 electives total so 84.6% of the total electives will have been passed to obtain the CML. Aloa may in the future add electives.
Domestic Automotive
Foreign Automotive
Door Closers
Life Safety Codes
High Security Cylinder Servicing
Special Application Cylinder Servicing
Tubular Key Cylinder Servicing
Basic Electricity
Exit Hardware and Exit Alarms
Keyless Mechanical Locks
Lever Tumbler/Non-Safe Deposit Locks
Motorcycle Locks
Safe Combination Locks
Safe Deposit Locks
Time Locks
Lockset Installation
Advanced Master Keying
Safe Installation
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Interchangeable Core Fundamentals
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Electromechanical Access Control
Related Door Hardware
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Detention Locking Systems
The intent: The PRP system serves a number of purposes. It has helped to organize locksmith education by identifying specific categories that should be common to all locksmiths, it gives locksmiths a rough measure of their own knowledge so they can identify areas that require further study and ultimately can provide consumers with some information about the knowledge level and test taking ability of a locksmith when making a decision to contract for service.
Controversy: The PRP system has received multiple criticisms from the locksmith community because it is a pencil and paper test with no hands on portion. Some locksmiths have vocalized that the test is not a fair measure of their competency because they don't perform well on written examinations but through the evidence of their longstanding operation as a locksmith they are competent despite not doing well or not participating in the exams.
I have personally heard from test developers working in the code industry that the PRP system and grading procedures should be reviewed by professional psychometricians periodically for revision. I do not know the entire history and development of the PRP from a test development standpoint but I do know that the development of testing is a hard science with many techniques for validating questions, answers and scoring procedures. Testing Measures Standards
Personal Opinion: The PRP is a great start to an otherwise herculean task. No testing system is perfect and the deployment of a hands on portion of the exam would be financially and logistically challenging to say the least. The implementation of task, conditions and standards hands on testing would be most easily accomplished as 'end of class' or 'during class' exams that are performed within the context of an educational event. Adding new dimensions to the designations such as a numbering system indicating completed hands on exams would be possible.
Based on the general lack of recogntion from the general public to the existing PRP, the addition of this modification to the system would not be likely to result in much greater public awareness of the PRP system. However, this type of testing would benefit the locksmith community through improved classes and educational milliues ultimatley resulting in better locksmiths to serve the community.
On licensing: The PRP is used by some states and accepted by most states as evidence of competency for licensing purposes. This changes the nature of the PRP from being a system of professional development and a marketing tool for locksmiths into a legal requirement to operate a locksmith business in states that require it. This aspect of the PRP being used in trade regulation then invites new criticism to take on new standards.
The inclusion of hands on competency portions such as those used by many welding certificaiton systems, becomes more relevant to the intent of state licensing, which is to protect the public good and to attempt to ensure that locksmiths are at least prepared to perform a minimum standard of quality work.
The other side of the argument on the use of the PRP in locksmith licensing comes from veteran locksmiths who despite being in business for a long period of time, cannot pass the state based exams and may not be able to operate in their trade unless they pass some portion of an exam.
In essence, the question becomes: How do you create a fair system for all parties which measures 100% what is required but does not exclude competent indviduals that may not have the test taking skills or particular skills measured by the system, some of which may not be applicable in their business or may not be viewed as critical by fire, life safety or code officials within a state, who may be tasked with trying to regulate the trade.
For example a test of a persons ability to generate or fit a key to vehicle, may have little relevance to a locksmith who only installs commercial and residential hardware and who may in fact not even advertise the service of automotive key generation to the public nor intend to do that task.
Some of the most critical applications such as exit device service and installation, ironically is often exhempted in most states for employees of general contractors who often have little or no training on installation of these systems.
Summary: The ALOA PRP system provides the locksmiths, the public and public officials with a tool to guage the competency of locksmiths, the degree to which that system does that has not been formally studied by a standards organization such as ISO to yield meaninful quantitative data that yields correlations to rate of failure, quality of work or other objective data. However, in the abscence of any system that has met the strictest criteria of test standards, a PRP designation does what it ultimatley purports to do: It indicates that an individual has participated in a systematic testing system and has met the requirements of that testing system.
Jim on things Aloa can do to improve public relations for locksmiths.
A message from Jim about things that he would like to see Aloa do on behalf of locksmiths.
I have spoken to several representatives over the years about this. I wish ALOA would direct more efforts toward the Public. Heck I know what a CML is!!! They don't! (Click here for article on the CML and PRP testing)
More efforts to contact and become a part of all the various groups and clubs, i.e.; Eagles, Rotary, Moose, Lions, etc. When was the last time they asked AAA about putting a package together for their membership about ALOA to send to all the customers?
Have they approached the Roadside service's about what ALOA is and educated them as to what the scammers are doing?
In my opinion there are many other things they can do to get the word out to the public. They don't need to tell us who they are!!!
I have spoken to several representatives over the years about this. I wish ALOA would direct more efforts toward the Public. Heck I know what a CML is!!! They don't! (Click here for article on the CML and PRP testing)
More efforts to contact and become a part of all the various groups and clubs, i.e.; Eagles, Rotary, Moose, Lions, etc. When was the last time they asked AAA about putting a package together for their membership about ALOA to send to all the customers?
Have they approached the Roadside service's about what ALOA is and educated them as to what the scammers are doing?
In my opinion there are many other things they can do to get the word out to the public. They don't need to tell us who they are!!!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
The easiest way to pick a lock!
There are a number of videos and post about amateur lockpicking and bumping etc. Let me let you in a secret technique that will open virtually any lock with nearly ZERO effort.
1. Acquire the phone number for a licensed locksmith in your area.
2. Call them.
3. When they get there, step back and let them work.
4. Once the lock is open, pay for the service.
5. Wish the locksmith a good day.
Using this simple 5 step technique you can get virtually any lock opened with little or no effort on your part (except possibly to get the phone number!) To save time finding a phone number you can take one of two approaches below for a 1 shot 1 kill solution.
Dial 1-800-popalock (1-800-767-2563)
or if that is too much to remember
Dial 411 and ask for "Pop A Lock".
www.popalock.com
1. Acquire the phone number for a licensed locksmith in your area.
2. Call them.
3. When they get there, step back and let them work.
4. Once the lock is open, pay for the service.
5. Wish the locksmith a good day.
Using this simple 5 step technique you can get virtually any lock opened with little or no effort on your part (except possibly to get the phone number!) To save time finding a phone number you can take one of two approaches below for a 1 shot 1 kill solution.
Dial 1-800-popalock (1-800-767-2563)
or if that is too much to remember
Dial 411 and ask for "Pop A Lock".
www.popalock.com
Funny Yelp reviews for Pop-A-Lock of Austin
http://www.yelp.com/biz/pop-a-lock-car-unlocking-service-austin
Very cool and funny reviews on the Pop-A-Lock of Austin Yelp page about two customer adventures that Pop-A-Lock had a chance to help out with.
Very cool and funny reviews on the Pop-A-Lock of Austin Yelp page about two customer adventures that Pop-A-Lock had a chance to help out with.
Press Release about Key Return Tags
United States of America (Press Release) November 13, 2008 --
Pop-A-Lock, America's Trusted Locksmith, has a long history of community service. Their Emergency Door Unlocking (EDU) program offers free service to anyone who has a child locked in a vehicle or home. Pop-A-Lock has added an additional community service in their Key Return Program.
How it works:
1. Acquire a key return tag either by directly asking for one when you see a Pop-A-Lock technician or visit www.popalock.com to request a tag and PUT IT ON YOUR KEY RING.
2. Once you have your tag, register it at www.popalock.com. Don't worry you will get no Spam from Pop-A-Lock, just an annual reminder to your email to update your mailing address.
3. If you lose your keys and they are found, the keys are dropped into a mail box then returned to your registered address...at no charge.
Anyone who has ever lost their keys can appreciate the aggravation and cost that this will save, particularly for someone who has lost WORK KEYS, KEYS TO SENSITIVE DOCUMENTS OR THEIR HOME AND CAR!In the event that keys are lost and are not returned, you can contact your local Pop-A-Lock either by visiting www.popalock.com, calling 1-800-Pop-A-Lock or simply calling 411 and asking for Pop-A-Lock.
Their locksmiths can change your locks, rekey locks, replace lost car keys, program new chip keys and replace hard to find specialty keys at a very fair rate.
Pop-A-Lock, America's Trusted Locksmith, has a long history of community service. Their Emergency Door Unlocking (EDU) program offers free service to anyone who has a child locked in a vehicle or home. Pop-A-Lock has added an additional community service in their Key Return Program.
How it works:
1. Acquire a key return tag either by directly asking for one when you see a Pop-A-Lock technician or visit www.popalock.com to request a tag and PUT IT ON YOUR KEY RING.
2. Once you have your tag, register it at www.popalock.com. Don't worry you will get no Spam from Pop-A-Lock, just an annual reminder to your email to update your mailing address.
3. If you lose your keys and they are found, the keys are dropped into a mail box then returned to your registered address...at no charge.
Anyone who has ever lost their keys can appreciate the aggravation and cost that this will save, particularly for someone who has lost WORK KEYS, KEYS TO SENSITIVE DOCUMENTS OR THEIR HOME AND CAR!In the event that keys are lost and are not returned, you can contact your local Pop-A-Lock either by visiting www.popalock.com, calling 1-800-Pop-A-Lock or simply calling 411 and asking for Pop-A-Lock.
Their locksmiths can change your locks, rekey locks, replace lost car keys, program new chip keys and replace hard to find specialty keys at a very fair rate.
Reviews for Pop-A-Lock in Raleigh, NC
http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Pop.A.Lock.919-872-9744/review/read?cid=269676
Very nice reviews out in Raleigh, NC
www.popalock.com
Very nice reviews out in Raleigh, NC
www.popalock.com
What makes a good locksmith?
I have had the opportunity to train and work with hundreds of locksmiths on a day to day basis for several years. Many of them have remained in the profession and many have moved on to other things after discovering that locksmithing wasn't for them.
1. Curiosity: If you have a natural curiosity to know how things work, particularly small fairly complex mechanical things, then you meet the first and most important requirement to be a locksmith.
2. Three Hands: Most locksmithing requires three hands. The lack of a third hand handicaps you but can be overcome by the use of mechanical aptitude to find ways to get around needing the third hand. Vices, balancing acts, using other parts of your body and cleverness are the usual methods of overcoming the 3 hand handicap.
3. Patient to a fault: Locks are composed of small very specific parts and pieces, they have to be disassembled and reassembled in specific order for things to work properly. Unlike a motor or other mechanical devices locks are often made 'infernal' by design to prevent people from tampering with the insides, which could compromise the security of the device. Solving lock problems often requires a great deal of patience in working with the 'parts and pieces', springs are particularly good at complicating an otherwise simple task.
4. Honest to a fault: If you are a locksmith for a few years most physical security measures are little more than a nuisance. If you have a criminal bone in your body...stay out of locksmithing. The phrase "Put you under the jail", was developed for the case of a locksmith going bad. If a judge finds out that you are a locksmith and you broke the special trust that community affords you...yep, that's right...Under the jail you go!
5. Common Sense: Locksmiths often work in the field with a limited set of tools and inventory and have to use common sense to solve a lot of problems. A vehicle that is stranded on a dark street and the keys are lost may require the locksmith to modify a key blank to fit the vehicle if the EXACT keyblank is not available that night.
6. Reliable: There are only a few professions that you really HAVE to be reliable. If a librarian doesn't show up to work...some research may get behind but no one is left 'blowing in the breeze' from the lapse. Police, Fire, Ambulance, Locksmiths...when people call for your help, it is often a RIGHT NOW situation.
7. Tireless: You see those ads that say 24 hour service? Often that is a one man show, if they had calls all day and return home at 11PM and get a call at 2am...yep, that's right Mr. Locksmith gets his self out of bed to come help you. Many people call locksmiths in the middle of the night just to see if they can ask questions...newsflash...they are human beings just like anyone else, after hours service is for real EMERGENCIES not for asking how much to duplicate a moped key.
8. Organized: The back of a locksmith truck has literally thousands of tiny parts and tools. If you are not organized and good at 'putting stuff where it belongs', locksmithing will be a hard job because it will take you so long to get things done because your stuff is out of place and you have to dig, dig, dig to find it. This slows you down, causes aggravation and is also bad for customer service.
9. Good with money: Locksmiths have to handle money in a field condition. There is rarely a cash register to count money etc. You have to make sure you keep your invoices and money, checks, credit card approvals etc in order. You also have to pay taxes on money collected and pay distributors.
10. Driving: You have to be an excellent driver to be a locksmith. I don't mean race car excellent, I mean Safe Driver of the Year award good driver. It is not unusual for a locksmith to put 60K to 100K miles on a vehicle in years time, often in unfamiliar areas in all sorts of weather conditions at all times a day! If you are a careless driver, save yourself the trouble don't jump in a locksmith truck, it will only be a matter of time before you start playing bumper cars!
If you have all of these attributes to one degree or another you may want to consider being a locksmith. It is a very rewarding profession because your main job is helping to keep people safe and secure. There is very distinct sense of pride that comes from being a locksmith when you step in to save someone's day.
For more information on being a locksmith please visit our website at http://www.popalock.com/ It doesn't matter if you are interested in a job or a franchise we can help point you in the right direction.
1. Curiosity: If you have a natural curiosity to know how things work, particularly small fairly complex mechanical things, then you meet the first and most important requirement to be a locksmith.
2. Three Hands: Most locksmithing requires three hands. The lack of a third hand handicaps you but can be overcome by the use of mechanical aptitude to find ways to get around needing the third hand. Vices, balancing acts, using other parts of your body and cleverness are the usual methods of overcoming the 3 hand handicap.
3. Patient to a fault: Locks are composed of small very specific parts and pieces, they have to be disassembled and reassembled in specific order for things to work properly. Unlike a motor or other mechanical devices locks are often made 'infernal' by design to prevent people from tampering with the insides, which could compromise the security of the device. Solving lock problems often requires a great deal of patience in working with the 'parts and pieces', springs are particularly good at complicating an otherwise simple task.
4. Honest to a fault: If you are a locksmith for a few years most physical security measures are little more than a nuisance. If you have a criminal bone in your body...stay out of locksmithing. The phrase "Put you under the jail", was developed for the case of a locksmith going bad. If a judge finds out that you are a locksmith and you broke the special trust that community affords you...yep, that's right...Under the jail you go!
5. Common Sense: Locksmiths often work in the field with a limited set of tools and inventory and have to use common sense to solve a lot of problems. A vehicle that is stranded on a dark street and the keys are lost may require the locksmith to modify a key blank to fit the vehicle if the EXACT keyblank is not available that night.
6. Reliable: There are only a few professions that you really HAVE to be reliable. If a librarian doesn't show up to work...some research may get behind but no one is left 'blowing in the breeze' from the lapse. Police, Fire, Ambulance, Locksmiths...when people call for your help, it is often a RIGHT NOW situation.
7. Tireless: You see those ads that say 24 hour service? Often that is a one man show, if they had calls all day and return home at 11PM and get a call at 2am...yep, that's right Mr. Locksmith gets his self out of bed to come help you. Many people call locksmiths in the middle of the night just to see if they can ask questions...newsflash...they are human beings just like anyone else, after hours service is for real EMERGENCIES not for asking how much to duplicate a moped key.
8. Organized: The back of a locksmith truck has literally thousands of tiny parts and tools. If you are not organized and good at 'putting stuff where it belongs', locksmithing will be a hard job because it will take you so long to get things done because your stuff is out of place and you have to dig, dig, dig to find it. This slows you down, causes aggravation and is also bad for customer service.
9. Good with money: Locksmiths have to handle money in a field condition. There is rarely a cash register to count money etc. You have to make sure you keep your invoices and money, checks, credit card approvals etc in order. You also have to pay taxes on money collected and pay distributors.
10. Driving: You have to be an excellent driver to be a locksmith. I don't mean race car excellent, I mean Safe Driver of the Year award good driver. It is not unusual for a locksmith to put 60K to 100K miles on a vehicle in years time, often in unfamiliar areas in all sorts of weather conditions at all times a day! If you are a careless driver, save yourself the trouble don't jump in a locksmith truck, it will only be a matter of time before you start playing bumper cars!
If you have all of these attributes to one degree or another you may want to consider being a locksmith. It is a very rewarding profession because your main job is helping to keep people safe and secure. There is very distinct sense of pride that comes from being a locksmith when you step in to save someone's day.
For more information on being a locksmith please visit our website at http://www.popalock.com/ It doesn't matter if you are interested in a job or a franchise we can help point you in the right direction.
How do I get action taken against scammer locksmiths in my area?
1. If you are a customer that is being scammed or just got scammed...call the local police to report it. Also if you paid with a credit card, contact your credit card company to complain.
2. If you are not satisfied with the result of the local investigation consider contacting your state legislative representative. This site http://www.congressmerge.com/onlinedb/index.htm will allow you to easily to contact any of your states representatives to let them know what happened to you. Please be sure to include the PHONE NUMBER of the company that scammed you because they may have used a fake name and address to make it harder for you to track them down. With the phone number the offending company can be recontacted.
You can provide them this link: http://www.aloa.org/pdf/pressroom.pdf for a brief introduction to the scammer problem. They will probably be appauled and surprised to find out that this is a widespread problem.
3. Contact you states Attorney General to complain. Not sure how to get in touch with them...http://www.aloa.org/AGMap/AG.htm this page has a quick link to all of the AG sites in the US. Again, try to get the phone number and name of the company.
4. Still not vindicated? Go to your local press and TV stations and explain your problem. They may even produce a sting where they call the scammers out and expose them on local TV.
DO NOT attempt to engage them, many are foreign nationals that will resist deportation by force. Many are former foreign military trained in hand to hand combat so it would not be wise to make a direct physical confrontation with them.
2. If you are not satisfied with the result of the local investigation consider contacting your state legislative representative. This site http://www.congressmerge.com/onlinedb/index.htm will allow you to easily to contact any of your states representatives to let them know what happened to you. Please be sure to include the PHONE NUMBER of the company that scammed you because they may have used a fake name and address to make it harder for you to track them down. With the phone number the offending company can be recontacted.
You can provide them this link: http://www.aloa.org/pdf/pressroom.pdf for a brief introduction to the scammer problem. They will probably be appauled and surprised to find out that this is a widespread problem.
3. Contact you states Attorney General to complain. Not sure how to get in touch with them...http://www.aloa.org/AGMap/AG.htm this page has a quick link to all of the AG sites in the US. Again, try to get the phone number and name of the company.
4. Still not vindicated? Go to your local press and TV stations and explain your problem. They may even produce a sting where they call the scammers out and expose them on local TV.
DO NOT attempt to engage them, many are foreign nationals that will resist deportation by force. Many are former foreign military trained in hand to hand combat so it would not be wise to make a direct physical confrontation with them.
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