SECTOR INSIGHT
National media coverage brings wider public attention to the issue of rogue locksmiths
» THIS COVERAGE FOLLOWS AROUND a year of investigative work with the BBC, focused on a specific case and wider evidence gathered by the MLA. That work sits alongside the MLA’ s longer-standing efforts, which since 2021 have included handling consumer complaints, campaigning for stronger protections, and raising concerns with policymakers.
This update looks at how that investigative work has led to wider public awareness, and the practical steps now being taken to reduce harm to consumers and improve how the problem is addressed.
Rogue Locksmith Campaign: Progress, Impact and Next Steps
The issue of rogue locksmiths is already well known within the industry, but recent national media coverage has helped bring it to a much wider public audience. That attention has created real momentum and opened up more constructive conversations about what needs to change and how.
The focus for us now is on making use of that momentum and turning it into practical action.
National media coverage: raising public awareness
Over the past 12 months, the MLA has worked closely with the BBC on a piece of investigative journalism, following a consumer report made directly to the broadcaster. During that time, the MLA shared evidence from consumer complaints, provided additional case studies, and offered expert input to support the investigation.
We would also like to thank Lloyd Morgan of MLA Approved Company London Locks Ltd, us by supporting the investigation, filming for the“ sting” operation and demonstrating not only how the job should be done professionally but also helping emphasis how misleading pricing can lead to customers being charged many times more than the original quote.
It was also encouraging to see other MLA members involved, including Jonathon Horsley from Active Lock Centre and Clive Hunter-Rowe from Southern Lock and Safe, helping to reinforce the wider industry message.
This sustained collaboration resulted in significant coverage across BBC Breakfast, BBC News, BBC Radio London and BBC Morning Live, alongside features on the BBC website, local news outlets and even making an appearance on Channel 4’ s new series of Googlebox!
These broadcasts exposed how some rogue locksmiths use misleading adverts and pricing tactics, often targeting people at stressful moments when they have little time to question what they are being told.
This level of national coverage is an important step forward. It reaches millions of people— particularly those most likely to need a locksmith in an emergency— and allows clear, practical advice to be shared at the point where it matters most.
Measurable impact The BBC coverage didn’ t just raise awareness— it drove real action:
• Visits to the MLA website increased dramatically immediately after the broadcasts
• Searches for“ MLA Approved locksmith” and related terms surged
• Many people reached our site directly after seeing or hearing the coverage
This shows that when consumers see or hear trusted media coverage, they pay attention and actively look for safer, more reliable options once the risks are clearly explained, particularly through national TV and radio.
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FEBRUARY 2026
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