It looks affordable, honest, and local — but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

These ads are part of a nationwide scam that tricks thousands of people every year. And yes, they’re active right here in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, Bentonville, and surrounding areas.

Here’s exactly how it works and how to avoid it.

How the $19 Locksmith Scam Works

These scammers run fake websites claiming to be local locksmiths. They use stock photos, fake shop addresses, and dozens of phone numbers.

When you call:

1. You reach a national call center — usually not even in Arkansas
2. They quote you $19 or $29 to get you hooked
3. A random, untrained “tech” shows up
4. They claim your lock is “special” or “high-security”
5. They say drilling is required
6. Your final bill becomes $200–$500 or more

By the time people realize what happened, it’s too late.

We See the Damage Every Week

We’ve had customers:

• Overcharged by hundreds
• Left with destroyed locks
• Given no receipt
• Given keys that don’t even work
• Lied to about what was “required”
• Told they had to replace entire door hardware when they didn’t

Meanwhile, these scammers disappear — because none of the numbers or addresses are real.

How to Spot a REAL Local Locksmith

A legitimate locksmith will always:

✔ Have a real, walk-in shop
✔ Have branded service vans
✔ Use a local phone number (479-521-LOCK)
✔ Provide upfront pricing
✔ Be licensed and insured
✔ Have a physical presence in the community
✔ Offer long-term service and warranties

C & E Lock & Safe Inc. has been in business for decades. Scammers come and go — we don’t.

Watch Our Scam Video So You Don’t Get Burned

We created a short educational video showing what these scammers do and how they trick people.

👉 Watch the video: https://youtu.be/320mgOBtTwk

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this locksmith legit?” — this video will tell you exactly what to look for.

Call Someone Local Before You Get Locked Out

When you’re stressed and locked out, it’s easy to grab the first number you see. That’s exactly what scammers count on.

Save our number now:

📞 C & E Lock & Safe Inc. — 479-521-LOCK

The post Cheap Locksmith Ads: The $19 Trap That’s Still Catching People in NWA appeared first on C & E Lock & Safe, Inc..

Modern video systems let you see all locations in one app, share clips, and search quickly without maintaining on‑site recorders. Ideal for retailers, offices, restaurants, churches, and service companies.

Key benefits

• Anytime access: Phone, tablet, or browser—on the road or at home.
• No on‑site NVR headaches: Less hardware to maintain.
• Smart search: Skip hours of footage—jump to motion or people/vehicle events.
• Easy sharing: Send a secure link to staff or law enforcement.
• Scales with you: Add cameras or sites as you grow.

Note: We install camera systems and offer cloud‑based options, but we do not sell monitored alarm systems.

Plan it right

• Network check: We confirm bandwidth and recommend wired/Wi‑Fi where appropriate.
• Privacy & signage: We’ll help you place cameras thoughtfully (cash wraps, entries, lots) while respecting privacy areas.
• Retention planning: Choose storage durations that fit your risk profile and budget.
• Mobile workflows: Train managers to pull clips fast when incidents happen.

Add access control when ready

Tie cameras with card/fob access on main entries to see who entered and when. Start with a few critical doors and expand.

Ready to simplify oversight?

Let’s design a right‑sized system for your business. Call 479‑521‑LOCK or request a site visit today.Need help today? C & E Lock & Safe Inc. — serving Fayetteville & Northwest Arkansas since 1981.
📞 479‑521‑5625 (479‑521‑LOCK)
📅 Schedule service online

Related Links

• Commercial Locksmith 
• Door Closers & Hardware
• Access Control 
• Contact / Directions 

The post Video for Small Business: One App, Multiple Locations (No Monitoring Contracts) appeared first on C & E Lock & Safe, Inc..

Moving into a new home, changing roommates, losing a key, or upgrading door hardware—each event raises the same question: should you rekey your existing locks or replace them entirely? Choosing right saves money, improves security, and keeps your home looking great.

When to rekey

Rekeying changes the internal pins to work with a new key while keeping your current lock hardware. It’s fast, budget‑friendly, and keeps your door’s look consistent.

• You’re moving into a new place and don’t know who might still have keys.
• A key was lost, borrowed, or never returned.
• You want one key to work multiple locks (keyed alike).
• Your existing hardware is in good condition.

Pro tip: If your locks are from the same brand (or compatible keyway), we can often key them alike so you carry one key for all exterior doors.

When to replace

Full replacement makes sense when:

• The lock is worn, sticking, or rusted.
• You want to upgrade to Grade 1/2 hardware, high‑security cylinders, or a new finish.
• You’re switching styles (e.g., lever instead of knob) or adding a smart deadbolt.

How we save you money

When you buy locks from C & E Lock & Safe Inc., we’ll rekey them free to your preferred keying (subject to standard hardware/keyway compatibility). Many people buy hardware elsewhere, then pay us to rekey—often costing more than purchasing locally from us in the first place. Buying local supports the Northwest Arkansas economy and ensures you have a real shop to stand behind the product.

Rekey vs. smart locks

Smart locks can be great for convenience, but they still have a mechanical keyway. We’ll help you choose models with solid physical security (strike plate, screws, door frame reinforcement) instead of chasing features you won’t use.

What to expect from our visit

• A quick hardware assessment
• Rekeying or replacement options with clear pricing
• Tips to reinforce the door and latch area for better kick‑in resistance

Ready to simplify your keys?

Need help today? C & E Lock & Safe Inc. — serving Fayetteville & Northwest Arkansas since 1981.
📞 479‑521‑5625 (479‑521‑LOCK)
📅 Schedule service online

The post Rekey vs. Replace: The Smart Move for NWA Homeowners (Plus Free Rekey When You Buy From Us) appeared first on C & E Lock & Safe, Inc..