SECTOR INSIGHT
Clear advice for consumers One practical step consumers can take is to save the details of a reputable locksmith before an emergency arises.
In stressful situations, there is often little time to research properly. Rogue locksmiths rely on that pressure. Having trusted contact details available in advance can help reduce the risk of being misled or overcharged.
The scale of the issue We ended 2025 with our highest number of rogue locksmith complaints on record, representing a 66 % increase since we first began recording complaints in 2021.
Campaign progress— standing up for our trade
While rogue trading itself is not new, it has become clearer what enables it to continue.
The primary issue now lies in the misuse of search engine advertising by rogue traders, who continue to:
• Use misleading ads to appear legitimate
• Dominate paid search results
• Push genuine, local locksmiths further down the page
Alongside continued work with MPs and government, there have been some encouraging developments:
• The Advertising Standards Authority and Citizens Advice are taking positive steps to address misleading locksmith advertising, and we expect to share more detail on this soon
• Conversations with regulators and consumer protection bodies are ongoing, with a clearer focus on where we need a solution
• We are speaking with organisations in other countries to understand how similar problems have been tackled elsewhere, and whether those approaches could work in the UK
The aim is simple: reduce the chances of people being misled or overcharged when they are already in a stressful situation.
Looking ahead
Recent activity has moved the issue beyond awareness alone, building on work the MLA has carried out since 2021 through complaints handling, policy engagement and campaigning for stronger protections. This has led to greater visibility, more political engagement and measurable consumer response. While the problem remains, progress is being made.
Continued cooperation between industry, regulators and consumer bodies will be key to improving consumer protection and supporting legitimate locksmiths.
About involvement and resources
Consumers looking for a reliable locksmith can use the MLA’ s Find a Locksmith directory at www. locksmiths. co. uk, which lists locksmiths vetted against recognised standards. Locksmiths who would like to be included on the directory can email membership @ locksmiths. co. uk to find out more.
Locksmiths who want to support our campaigning can also request the MLA’ s MP templates to raise concerns and share evidence of rogue activity. Scan to request your template.
Be part of something bigger.
FEBRUARY 2026
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Issue Takeover locksmithjournal. co. uk