New Test Drive Scam Alert: Protect Your Dealership from Key Swappers!
1. Ensure Safety and Assess the Situation
Experiencing a break-in is a challenging event for any business owner. The steps you take immediately after the incident are critical for ensuring the safety of your premises and preventing future occurrences. At Locks and Unlocks, we’re here to guide you through the process and provide the essential services needed to restore your security.
How the Scam Works
Here’s how this deceptive tactic typically unfolds:
The Test Drive: A potential buyer requests a test drive, presenting all the usual credentials and behaving in a manner that doesn’t raise any immediate suspicions.
The Swap: During the test drive, the scammer discreetly swaps the working key with a non-functional decoy key that looks identical.
The Return: The decoy key is handed back to the dealership after the test drive. Initially, the key might seem fine, but it won’t start the car due to a dead battery or a hidden malfunction.
The Theft Attempt: Believing the key is simply faulty, the dealership might not think much of it. Meanwhile, the scammer returns later with the working key, enabling them to steal the vehicle with ease.
3. Contact Locks and Unlocks for Immediate Repairs
Emergency Repairs: Reach out to Locks and Unlocks at 608-877-4357 for fast and reliable repair services. We specialize in repairing and replacing damaged locks, doors, and other security features to secure your business quickly.
High-Security Upgrades: Consider upgrading to high-security locks that are resistant to picking, drilling, and other common break-in methods. Our expert locksmiths can assess your needs and recommend the best solutions to enhance your business’s security.
Signs of Key Swapping
Being vigilant and recognizing the signs of key swapping can help prevent these scams:
Unusual Customer Behavior: While this can be subjective, a potential buyer who seems overly focused on the key fob or asks to examine it more closely might be a red flag.
Key Performance Issues: If a key stops working immediately after a test drive, don’t just assume it’s a dead battery. Consider the possibility of a swap.
Inspection Requests: Be cautious if a customer asks to inspect multiple key fobs or if they seem to handle the keys more than usual.
Protecting Your Dealership
To safeguard against these types of scams, implement the following measures:
Strict Key Management: Maintain a tight protocol for handling and tracking keys. Ensure keys are handed directly between employees and customers, and check for any discrepancies immediately after a test drive.
Key Inspection: Have a designated employee inspect the key’s functionality before and after each test drive. This can quickly identify if a swap has occurred.
Surveillance: Utilize surveillance cameras in areas where key exchanges occur to have a clear record of all transactions and interactions.
Educate Staff: Regularly train your staff to be aware of such scams and encourage them to report any suspicious behavior immediately.
Taking Action
If you suspect a key swapping incident has occurred:
Contact Authorities: Report the incident to local law enforcement and provide them with any relevant details and surveillance footage.
Notify Other Dealerships: Alert other dealerships in your area to the scam to help prevent further incidents.
Enhance Security Measures: Review and update your dealership’s security protocols to address any vulnerabilities that may have been exploited.
Conclusion
Key swapping scams represent a serious threat to car dealerships, but with vigilance and robust security measures, you can protect your inventory and maintain your dealership’s integrity. Stay alert, educate your team, and prioritize security to keep your dealership safe from these evolving threats.
If you have any concerns or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us at Locks and Unlocks. We’re here to help you enhance your security and safeguard your business against all types of theft.
Ready to experience the difference with Locks and Unlocks firsthand? Whether you’re in need of automotive assistance, commercial security solutions, residential locksmithing services, or safe and vault opening or repair our team is here to help. Contact us today at 6088774357 or visit our website www.locksandunlocks.com to discover how we can enhance your security and provide peace of mind for your home or business.
Written by Bo Meier, Head of Sales and Marketing at Locks and Unlocks. Bo brings a unique blend of analytical prowess and hands on experience to the team, with expertise in safe related matters. His dedication to excellence ensures that every customer receives topnotch service and innovative solutions.
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