Mike Bronzell Exposes “Mobster” Meni Agababayev of Run Local Locksmith In ABC Nightline Sting – The LOOKOUT
Finally, someone provided a news report focused on a key figure named Meni Agababayev (aka Meni Aga) a self proclaimed Israeli Russian “Mobster” actor, who is behind a roving enterprise of websites identified as Run Local. According to Agababayev, these are successful businesses which he is involved in and which financed his personal movie called MOBSTER!
Special shout out to ABC News program called “The Lookout”. they did a bang up job that was well developed and well delivered. The giant Google map pins were a priceless subliminal message about Google Places. Overall it was refreshing to witness.
One person who disagrees with Agababayev is an inside informant identified as “Ben”, who makes it clear that he is afraid of the scary side of notorious locksmith syndicates who consist of recent immigrants recruited from Israel. These folks identify Americans as stupid and from this belief they conduct their enterprise.
The SOPL has for many years made it very clear to everyone that these individuals are not locksmiths at all, but many news reports and other locksmith associations have continued to identify them as locksmiths. This was being done intentionally to try to link an agenda of forcing licensing upon the hardworking locksmiths, and to demonize home based or mobile locksmiths who have done nothing wrong and are not engaging in such deceptive events.
The fact is, this news report clearly demonstrates how licensing DOES NOT work since the scammers continue to operate in the states which do have require a license such as New Jersey where it was filmed. If it turns out one of these individuals has a license, then it is an even better example! But this is another story so stay tuned for PART 2 of this story!
Licensing has nothing to do with stopping a mobster or anyone from impersonating any trade or consumer service group and locksmiths are not the only ones being misrepresented. Carpet cleaning, towing, garage door services and more are also being targets. Basically any service industry!
In 2006 the SOPL LockRadio program interviewed 2 Israeli locksmiths who shared their experience with this syndicate. Mike Bronzell who stayed the course suffered terrible insults and accusations from many individuals in the locksmith industry and forum discussion groups as he was trying to get people to hear his concerns. I wonder how these individuals feel now?
Desertpeace 
profnasty said,
June 8, 2013 at 21:37
It’s crime without regulations or penalties. It’s the New World Order, courtesy of George Bush-Friend of Israel(TM).
Don’t forget, his Military “Heroes” are protecting our freedom-Over There.
ROTFL.
Victor said,
June 9, 2013 at 00:09
Yes, indeed. The Israeli civilian or military people deeply penetrated into locksmith and moving companies in Northern Virginia and DC Metropolitan area. The reasons and intent are obvious – to spy on Americans!
Robin said,
June 9, 2013 at 07:35
Can we talk sense here please without tossing in “New World Order” and George Bush please. This has to do with lax locksmithing laws in various states and the ability to flood the yellow pages and google maps with scammers. There have been many successful prosecutions but you can’t prosecute for something that is not against the law!
For one thing in order to get stiff licensing requirements in locksmithing in different states,locksmiths in those states must seek and have legislated stiffer licensing laws and penalties. Slowly but surely this is occurring in different states for one reason: the locksmithing profession is seeking it. But NOT all locksmiths think this is necessary and they are legitimate locksmiths themselves. Furthermore these guys don’t care that they are breaking the law where laws do exist. Customers also rarely even know what to do when they have been scammed. But IF they had called a legitimate locksmith in the first place they wouldn’t be scammed!
I have been following the Israeli locksmith scam since 2008. Desert Peace in fact has this article posted because I sent it to him after Mike Bronzell himself sent it to me by email. There have been MANY media exposes of the locksmithing scam as well there have been many prosecutions. The real problem here is that these scammers are able to flood the various yellow pages and google maps to the point that it’s like finding a legitimate locksmith in a haystack.
There have been several successful prosecutions in this scam both state and federal while indeed there should be more. (for instance federal bust for mail fraud on Dependable)
Here’s your tip for the day. How to find a legitimate locksmith and not be taken in by a scammer. LEGITIMATE locksmiths deserve your business. These scammers most certainly do not. Educate the public. These guys couldn’t remain in business if they weren’t being called! It is NOT fair to be calling a scammer and giving them your business.
http://www.find-a-locksmith.net/
Victor: They are in every major city in the US. Canada, Australia and the UK as well
lolathecur said,
June 9, 2013 at 08:34
Reblogged this on Lolathecur's Blog.
Anonymous said,
June 9, 2013 at 18:36
Robin, those claiming the locksmith industry are “asking for licensing” are a minority group within the industry and they are are not being completely honest about it and there is an agenda. Please do your research otherwise I can lead you to relevant content and investigative journalism which has been responsible enough to accurately report on it.
There have not been “many” prosecutions. There have been a few at best. The one thing everyone seems to ignore is that the folks you are promoting with the link you provided, consider a “legitimate” locksmith are those licensed under their modeled law. How would you react if you discovered that RUN LOCAL is in fact a licensed locksmith business?
Definitive Proof that Locksmith Licensing is a Con Job – What Your Not Being Told! – http://tinyurl.com/kfk5a8z
This would make them legitimate according to the logic of the proponents, would it not?
Ignoring existing consumer protection laws in order to be deceptive and push for more laws to suit a special interest group is self serving. There are a lot of heated discussions going on inside the LinkedIn locksmith groups where it has been exposed that those you claim are “asking for licensing” are also trying to equate the hard working mobile locksmiths to scammers in order to kill two birds with one stone and create a monopoly. Restriction of trade will not benefit the consumer.
Can you please provide proof that licensing of the locksmiths has prevented, stopped the scammers (Bad Actors) from existing or operating? The fact is that in the states where licensing is, they thrive. Given all the exemptions these licensing laws have, the only persons deemed to be untrustworthy in need of regulation are the hardworking Mom & Pop locksmiths (Good Actors), and they have done absolutely nothing wrong.
So at the end of the day, it is all purely a financial burden designed to hurt the solopreneur while giving the consumer a false sense of value.
Keep up the discussion, it is needed.
Society of Professional Locksmiths said,
June 9, 2013 at 19:04
Definitive Proof that Locksmith Licensing is a Con Job – What Your Not Being Told! – http://tinyurl.com/kfk5a8z
ABC NEWS UNLOCKS THE ISRAELI MAFIA LOCKSMITH 'B... said,
June 10, 2013 at 14:31
[…] * One person who disagrees with Agababayev is an inside informant identified as "Ben", who makes it clear that he is afraid of the scary side of notorious locksmith syndicates who consist of rece… […]
Robin said,
June 10, 2013 at 17:56
Anonymous. You don’t think I know that Run Local is a licensed locksmith? Of course I do. Please reread my comment regarding the flooding of yellow pages and google maps. When you can come up with a better means by which to find a legitimate locksmith within the haystack of scammers please let me know. Just last year my daughter needed an emergency locksmith on 4th of July (long story but short story is that a homeless schizophrenic woman my daughter has been trying to help got access to my daughter’s keys). She called me to find her a legitimate locksmith which I did.
PS he was Israeli with a LEGITIMATE mobile lock service. Hell she even told him she was glad her mom was able to find her a legitimate locksmith that wasn’t going to rip her off and he in turn knew all about the scammers. My other daughter on the other hand told me the place where she worked needed a locksmith and unfortunately called a scammer who tried jacking up the price. She’s listening to me now and said “If I or anyone I know needs a locksmith I now know how to find a legitimate one”.
What a bunch of hooey this statement is “The one thing everyone seems to ignore is that the folks you are promoting with the link you provided, consider a “legitimate” locksmith are those licensed under their modeled law. How would you react if you discovered that RUN LOCAL is in fact a licensed locksmith business?”
Prove to me that find a locksmith is promoting scammers simply because they are licensed. IF this is the case show the proof. If it is I can say I am NOT aware of this and you indeed are slandering those who are trying to do something to protect legitimate locksmiths if what you say is false.
Robin said,
June 10, 2013 at 18:16
Let’s get this straight. Dependable and the other call center locksmiths who flood the yellow pages and google maps are NOT legitimate. They suck you in with a quoted price. You call a number who then calls one of their ILL TRAINED (if trained at all) “locksmiths” in the field. You’re not talking to someone who doesn’t know about this scam “Anonymous” You are addressing someone who became aware of this some six years ago when a German friend’s Israeli son got involved with this shit. He went to a safe house outside Washington DC where he and many others got “trained”. ONE WEEK and back to Nebraska he went to see his mother long enough to take off to where he was sent by Dependable. That was the Oakland area. So how does this work? He had to pay for his own $500 in miniscule “locksmithing tools” and just move to the city (Oakland) and then he would get calls from Dependable. He then owed Dependable the price of the call and any monies he made were from jacking up the price to the customers. Does the name Eli Barhanum ring a bell? Does the name of where he sent his check to ring a bell? El Ad Group
Federal bust Mr. Anonymous.
Come back and prove to me that the only criteria for find a locksmith is that they are licensed (which scammers do as well, get licensed)
Until you do I will rack you up to one of the many who finds articles on the Israeli locksmith mafia and attempts to spew misinformation. Perhaps I should publish the vile comments and threats I have received over the years whenever I blogged about this myself. If Desert Peace gets flooded with similar comments it won’t surprise me one darn bit.
Altic Lock Service (@alticlock) said,
June 10, 2013 at 21:31
Robin, please reread then following statement that you called a bunch of hooey: “The one thing everyone seems to ignore is that the folks you are promoting with the link you provided, consider a “legitimate” locksmith are those licensed under their modeled law. How would you react if you discovered that RUN LOCAL is in fact a licensed locksmith business?”
The link you provided is from the ALOA Security Professionals Association. Anonymous is saying you are promoting them by providing the link. ALOA supports locksmith licensing. The model law Anonymous referred to is from ALOA and found here: http://aloa.org/pdf/model_law.pdf. ALOA promotes that law as a way of eliminating the scammers. But, as you noted, Run Local and other scammers get the licenses when required, as seen in most, if not all, of the states that have licensing requirements here: http://tinyurl.com/kfk5a8z .
Follow the logic – ALOA supports licensing legislation that recognizes licensed businesses as legitimate. Run Local and other scammers get licensed under these laws, thereby giving them the appearance of being legitimate.Since the link you provided is to ALOA, which supports the failed licensing laws.
It actually sounds to me like you guys aren’t far off from each other; you’re just missing the connection between ALOA’s find-a-locksmith and their support of licensing laws that make any licensed locksmith appear to be legitimate, including Run Local.
Robin said,
June 10, 2013 at 22:11
Do either one of you care to leave your name? This is what I am saying. I am very aware that licensing does not mean a locksmith is legitimate. I personally after many years can recognize one of the scammers easily. However the general public cannot. Nor should it be a matter of wading through a hundred scam mafia locksmiths to find a legitimate one.
Please, if you have a suggestion of how to find a legitimate locksmith in light of the scammers flooding the yellow pages and Google maps please give it. Personally I have told just about everyone who will listen to me about this locksmith mafia and that it is extremely difficult to find a legitimate locksmith. I don’t have any sort of “knack” that I can impart to people. If you have some way to help consumers other than referring them to the link I gave or another link please advise. My soul interest is in protecting legitimate locksmiths from a MAFIA that is not only putting their profession in bad light but is also putting many legitimate businessmen out of business because THEY aren’t called by customers.
Thank you.
Robin said,
June 10, 2013 at 22:29
I apoligize. I realize Altic Lock belongs to Barry Campbell. My sincere concern goes out to every single legitimate locksmith out there trying to make an honest living in the face of a mafia elbowing in on your businesses. I have personally spoken to countless locksmiths across the country who are very aware of what is going on and most are at a loss as to what can be done. I repeat, I know licensing is not a cure because the scammers get licensed too. Even if criminal legislation is enacted (which it appears there is also an effort to do having perused to update myself on this matter) then the scammers can just have someone else take out a license for them.
In my very humble opinion, you guys have got to start agreeing on some basics on how to deal with this problem because consumers are vulnerable. I Robin want to steer consumers to the good guys. Reporters who have done exposes also want to steer consumers to the good guys.
Society of Professional Locksmiths said,
June 11, 2013 at 00:04
Robin, there appears to a whole lot of things we need to help you catch up on so you can step under the Holly tree and have greater understanding of others perspective and experience.
I will soon post a very interesting article for you in the Society of Professional Locksmiths blog. It will reveal a few things you may find interesting. I will call the title – Under the Holly Tree, Just You and Me.
In the meantime, you might find some of these entry’s informative.
Chicago Locksmith Saved By An Angel – Mike Bronzell
Mike Bronzell Exposes “Mobster” Meni Agababayev of Run Local Locksmith In ABC Nightline Sting – The LOOKOUT
ALOA Proposes to Criminalize Acts of Locksmithing
NY Locksmith License Sponsor Senator Shirley Huntley Faces Arrest
Purple Heart Recipient Victimized by Locksmith Licensing Law – U.S. Army Iraq War Veteran Locked Out Of Profession For Rescuing Stray Dog
Arizona Law Review references the Society of Professional Locksmiths – Fighting Deceptive Marketing in the Twenty-First Century
Texas Auditors Afraid of Licensed Locksmiths – by T.F. Stern
Texas Showdown – Locksmith License Reform Opportunity
Are You A Professional Locksmith?
Everyone Wins a Fish? – Locksmith Marketing & Survival
Emergency Locksmith Services said,
June 11, 2013 at 07:55
Indeed it’s a crime. Why do mobsters have to put their hands into each and every business and ruin it for people who are actually working hard to keep their name clean and being honest too? I think a locksmith should be licensed so that people can trust them. Nowadays media exposes many scams of locksmiths. Locksmith the person, who’s trusted by everyone. When anyone is locked out or has lost the key, one believes that only the locksmith, a single person can help and these types of scams are really harmful for all those good locksmiths.
Robin said,
June 11, 2013 at 13:16
Tom, perhaps you can simply answer my question. Is there any website other than the one I offered where a consumer can find a legitimate locksmith? While I realize the website I linked to may not give a full list of legitimate locksmiths (you have stated it is an ALOA sponsored website), perhaps your organization has another list (?) I have absolutely no desire to become involved in the disagreements within the locksmithing profession on how to handle their own profession vis a vis licensing, not licensing, penalties etc. I clearly stated I am aware the scammers have no problem getting licenses or getting around penalties. My ONLY concerns are 1. protecting consumers by giving them a means to find a legitimate locksmith 2. protecting legitimate locksmiths by steering business to THEM by means of #1 and 3. exposing the mafia which has taken over the locksmithing profession and both sullied the reputation of the profession as well as put many out of business.
PS no need to lecture me as in the past I have personally spoken to the then president of ALOA who adamantly stated he had no desire to expose the Israeli mafia as that could be seen as “anti-Semitic”. Seriously. Lest I transgress, my direct request since “you” are commenting here is for your help in aiding consumers. I would think my statements are pretty darn clear on that. You are obviously also aware of who I am obviously and my own admiration of a specific person within your organization for his indefatigable work on behalf of your profession.
Now back to my request. How can a consumer find a legitimate locksmith in he haystack of scammers?
Thank you.
Robin said,
June 11, 2013 at 14:45
FYI here’s an interesting article about “Emergency Locksmiths” who commented above. Multiple names Mr. Yates?
http://www.scamchecker.com/report/terry-whin-yates-mr-locksmith-locksmith-scam
Boy does the locksmithing profession have one HELL of a problem yet Mr. Tom Lynch puts the title of an article telling locksmiths how to out advertise the scammers. ( Everyone Wins a Fish? – Locksmith Marketing & Survival)
I am going to ask one last time. Mr. Lynch of Society of Professional Locksmiths. Can you guide the consumer to a website where they are assured of finding a legitimate locksmith who is NOT one of the scammers because it really is NOT easy to tell the difference when searching the internet which is what the average consumer turns to. Emergency situations are prime for taking advantage of people. The LEGITIMATE locsksmithing profession is a noble one. The scammers most certainly are not.
This is the bottom line. HOW do you find a legitimate locksmith in this sea of scammers?
Robin said,
June 11, 2013 at 15:21
PS Mr. Lynch. Only fifteen states require locksmithing licenses so I am assuming that ALOA is listing members as legitimate locksmiths in the other states on their referral site?. Am I correct in assuming this? Follow up question would be is membership in ALOA a trustworthy signifier of being a legitimate locksmith? If not in your opinion perhaps you could site an example of a referral they give who is a scammer. Do NOT take this as meaning non-membership in ALOA means you are not trustworthy. I am in no way intimating this.
Anxiously waiting your advice on where to go to find a legitimate locksmith other than the website I linked to.
Robin said,
June 11, 2013 at 16:10
Well GOLLY GEE. I found a list that can help Michiganers find a legitimate locksmith (although I find the format with links only not listing locations a tad bit difficult to maneuver it IS an attempt by one state to address this problem and aid the consumer)
http://lsamichigan.org/
Perhaps Mr. Lynch or Mr. Campbell who is also with SOPL could help consumers find other such lists in different states which could help protect them.
Robin said,
June 11, 2013 at 17:05
Compare the above list with many may listed real locksmiths to what is to be found on SOPL’s website for the state of Michigan. FOUR. Count that? I’m sorry Mr. Lynch but as a consumer I am sitting here really scratching my head! Would you care to address this and offer another list up that gives more options for Michigan consumers?
http://www.sopl.us/michigan.html
Tom Lynch said,
June 11, 2013 at 17:51
Robin I am seeing all your posts, questions and concerns. When I first posted here I did something wrong and it appeared as Anonymous. I’m not that savvy with registering into these blogs. This was not intentional. You seem to be a bit combative in your response, so again there was nothing disrespectful in the post given.
As to all your questions and need for a definitive “list”, I will accommodate you in another way. Part #3 of this issue will soon be presented and them possible a Part #4. I might call it “Under the Holly Tree – Just You & Me”, or possibly “Consumers Guilty of Locksmith Scams – A Guide on How NOT to Get Ripped Off”, consider it a consumer guide on how to find a locksmith. With just a few questions, it is easy to do and choosing a service because it is the “cheapest” bears some responsibility in the outcome in my opinion and will be discussed in the article. Sometimes if it is too good to be true, it isn’t, right? Just like when someone, even a locksmith organization tells you to “trust” them.
As for the “link farm” list you are referencing with the link provided. That is a small group that made that list in order to stroke one another with what they believed would be reciprocal links not for the consumer but for their own perceived manipulation of Google. That list also is not completely honest since each person can remove competitors and those professionals they have a personal grind against. So it is hardly a fair resource.
There are things you are not aware of and it seems you are shotgun shooting in the hopes of a hit, so to help I will try to keep it simple and as narrow as possible without revealing sensitive information which is under review.
Yes, there is a subject involved in certain a organization and there is a person of interest and who has been identified as being involved with certain websites and recruitment that appear to be similar to what you object too. Believe it or not, it is in your own back yard.
I have a problem with pay-to-play directories or play-by-our-terms directories that have more to do with restriction of trade, competitor elimination and cultism. I also have a problem with individuals within my industry that are creating these directories while creating fabricated drama and then lining their pockets -.that seems a bit ingenuous particularly when they are found to be presenting misleading information to the news media. Wouldn’t you agree?
Robin, there is an agenda by a minority group in our industry and it does not include or truly care about you or the consumers. I am on the inside, you are on the outside. I can only try to help you see things for what they really are and do the best in helping with what can be helped.
Barry provided relevant reference and reasonable logical observations. If you compare the talking points of the Doom and Gloomers to the facts and to their “ends” agenda, to this responsible rebuttal, you can only come to the conclusion that their behavior and talking points are irresponsible.
These people claimed the problem was “identity” of the Israeli Mafia, as you say. Really? When you have Run Local clearly licensed and you have people like David Peer within your organization, is really logical that you don’t know who they are or where to find them? Maybe they did not really want to find them? I found them in about 2 minutes.
A national news sting is conducted and yet nobody bothers to see if the target was in fact licensed? Really Robin? Who is kidding who here. This is about creating an atmosphere to “sell” not licensing and control of the market for a special interest group, but what comes with it which is forced continuing education and forced membership, which goes back to the minority organization who makes money from it.
Your concern is the consumer. I understand, but you unfortunately are under informed when it comes to how the game is being played and again….those driving it do not have the interest of the consumer in mind.
I have been involved with this industry for a long time. I have sat on several boards and committees. When there is money being listed on any organizations IRS returns being spent on a programs that never existed…..I have cause for concern and so should the consumer.
So for me, I struggle to differentiate who the real scammers are, or if they are one in the same.
Your right! The SOPL locksmith directory is lacking. We have had other priorities such as providing quality education to the professional locksmiths as well as other things. Good Catch! Our 1500 registered users have been pressuring me to update it, now your going to cause me more work. That’s fine.
Robin you appear to be looking for combat, trying to find holes or a way to discredit the SOPL, myself and maybe Barry? If that is the case let me know, because I have a few pointed questions for you.
Have a nice day under the Holly Tree.
Tom Lynch said,
June 11, 2013 at 18:20
Robin, when you try to embarrass someone please be more accurate. The one thing I hate is someone who makes things up. There are 5 individuals not FOUR, along with their pictures on that page. Your confusing yourself to believe that the Real List you keep referring to is exclusively for those in Michigan. It is not and it is nothing more than a Link Circle, but if you find it helpful…good for you!
As I said, we (the SOPL) freely acknowledge that our directory is lacking, But I must ask you, Compared to What? When I examine the link you provide to a find a locksmith directory I find the following message when I try to do a search – ERROR 404 – PAGE NOT FOUND
At least with the SOPL directory you do find a real person! Thank you for helping to reveal this.
However, since you bring it up, please take a look at the following blog article.
SOPL Managing Director Barry Campbell – Angie’s List & Locksmith Identification
http://www.sopl.us/4/post/2012/09/sopl-managing-director-barry-campbell-angies-list-locksmith-identification.html
The SOPL is the only professional organization in the locksmith side of things that provides the consumer a process to verify the identity of the locksmith. Building this type of directory takes time and it will be updated as time permits. So please stop take a breathe or two and try to be more understanding, or if you would like I can give you certain access to contribute your time to make the directory. Would you like to do this?
Is all this really necessary Robin? I am easily accessible should have a question. It is my understanding we have a mutual friend in the business. I am baffled at your tone and need to drill down on the SOPL who has been above board with all this.
Let me know if your prepared to invest thousands of hours into helping to update the SOPL directory. If not,we will get to it.
Robin said,
June 11, 2013 at 20:31
Thank you for your non answer Tom. Furthermore I am sure you already know that I ROBIN know all about David Peer along with countless other names of scammers. That’s besides the point isn’t it?
Either your industry comes up with a successful way to help the consumer find a legitimate locksmith or it doesn’t. It has nothing to do with licensing, penalties, arrests, etc. These are all just symptoms of a huge problem your industry unfortunately is suffering all while ya’ll duke it out being nasty to eachother.
I repeat, I have NO interest in the internal squabbles of your industry. I seek a SOLUTION for the average bear consumer to find a legitimate locksmith! Geebuz one would think you would want the same thing because at the end of the day it benefits EVERYONE and chokes off the business going to the scammers (all while people like Mike really DO spend the time needed hunting down the bad guys and seeking wherever possible to prosecute)
Your industry has a problem! And it isn’t me! And it isn’t consumers either! Lord have mercy when you have the president of SOPL trying to lay blame all over the place rather than helping those depending on you, I don’t know what else to say!
Tom Lynch said,
June 11, 2013 at 23:02
Robin, I am not sure if the lights are on and nobody is home for you or your just someone seeking attention, but please again get your facts straight when it comes to influencing another persons livelihoods. I gave you an answer as to where you will find my response. Nothing seems good enough for you.
I am not the President of the SOPL. I will add this to the list of your inaccurate statements.
Your not a concerned consumer in my opinion Robin. your acting more like a misguided combative activist without a cause and your approach is offensive.
Who said I or the SOPL am not working towards the same goals within the locksmith industry? I didn’t see you in the last meeting or teleconferences. Hmm….
Your a pretty nasty individual who lacks the least bit of understanding into this matter and your lack of accuracy and comprehension is part of the overall problem because your exposing things that are lack clarity and others may be misled by your misunderstanding.
Stop blaming the locksmith industry, I haven’t heard a peep from you as to why the news media didn’t ask the TV Repairman in this news sting if they were licensed. Stop blaming the good locksmiths, and the locksmith industry, they haven’t done anything wrong.
Yes Mike Bronzell is a good guy. I have known him for years. I have also been aware of the scammer issue since 1990, far longer then you so please do some better research before you assume that Mike alone had contributed to the issue. those in my industry have every right to debate internal disagreements with our peers, or are you suggesting everyone just submit? Is this the advice you give under the Holly Tree with the topics you blog about? Submit to the will of others when they are wrong?
Yes, Robin it does have to do with licensing and it affects the livelihoods of many good hard working people. No blame game going on, just the facts which seem to irritated you. Licensing has been definitively proven not to stop this issue. My apology for being honest. If my advocacy for my peers and the good members of the SOPL offends you then it is all part of fulfilling the mission statement of the organization I founded.
“The SOPL provides a voice for its members who are faced with unreasonable entrepreneurial interference.”
You seem to think the locksmith industry is collapsing over those who provide emergency service calls on lockouts? Please Robin, learn the depth of what a professional locksmith does. Lockouts are not what drives the pulse of the trade. The locksmith is rich in technologies far beyond a lockout. If you an others took the time to grasp this you might understand how to FIND A LOCKSMITH, which I was willing to help you with until you went postal.
You are not a professional locksmith Robin. I am. Why you choose to try to discredit the SOPL or myself is still odd to me. But you made your choice and your original apology appears to ingenuous at best.
So your not willing to help with the directory?
Altic Lock Service (@alticlock) said,
June 12, 2013 at 02:55
Geez, like watching an old married couple squabbling. Still seems to me there is so much we’re all agreed upon. Yes,, there are scammers operating as locksmiths. Yes, the operation of the more organized scammers was outlined in the ABC report. Yes, licensing has failed as a means to stop or even slow down the scammers. All agreed?
Tom is interjecting aspects of some of the problems within the industry, which seems to be frustrating Robin. I understand what he’s saying, but I also understand that Robin doesn’t care about that. But just so you know, Robin, in my opinion, no one has done more to advance and improve the industry than Tom. But that involves a lot more than the scammer issue and licensing.
On the other hand, Robin is looking for some single source to find the legitimate locksmiths. The plain truth is – there is no such thing. Just like you won’t find a single source to find a reputable mechanic. There’s good and bad in every trade. Each organization promotes its own. And there are good folks who are not part of any organization. Like any trade, the best source is personal referrals. Not the referrals you see on the internet; most of which are fake. The BBB is a decent source. Angie’s List is pretty good. None are perfect, nor complete.
Admittedly, I am biased, but you’d be safe with any SOPL member. I think we were all agreed that licensing alone is not sufficient criteria. And, unfortunately, most of the directories out there are bought into, and are pretty meaningless. At least the BBB, Angie’s List, and also HomeAdvisor do some amount of checking, but there is no guarantee.
Bryan said,
June 12, 2013 at 04:30
Robin as a member of SOPL and ALOA I do not understand your argument with Tom Lynch. You asked him to give you another site for customers to go to find a legitimate locksmith, and he gave it to you.The SOPL. Many of the legitimate locksmiths are members of both SOPL and ALOA. Mike Bronzell who fighting the scammers is also a member of Both associations.We all know of the scammers, they are not locksmiths. They are just a parasite Infestation on our trade and we fight them everyday. I think your anger is misdirected.
Bryan said,
June 12, 2013 at 05:22
Robin, maybe this is the confusion the site that you posted:
http://www.find-a-locksmith.net/
is not the offical ALOA find a locksmith site. Their site is a http://www.findalocksmith.com/
And SOPL Site:http://www.sopl.us/about-us.html
Bryan said,
June 12, 2013 at 05:38
or: http://www.sopl.us/find-a-locksmith.html
Bryan said,
June 12, 2013 at 07:05
P.S Robin many Locksmiths belong to local or state Association and they do not belong to the National Associations. That is why the local memberships are higher then the national membership.
Robin said,
June 12, 2013 at 07:51
#1 WHERE did I say licensing is going to solve the problem? Please point to it because I specifically said, “I clearly stated I am aware the scammers have no problem getting licenses or getting around penalties.”
Does that sound like I am pushing licensing? If you know how to read that statement says licensing isn’t stopping the scammers.!
You guys can go ahead and tilt at windmills. My suggestion, do something that works better than what you’re doing now because STILL an unjustifiable amount of business is going to the scammers because the general public does NOT have a source to go to in the friggin haystack. This one says this, that one says that. Try getting on the same page because it is awfully hard for a customer to find you and I really DO think there is room for improvement in making that easier to do.
Tom Lynch, “Director of Operations”. Sorry, I used an incorrect title for you.
Now I am going to bid all of you adieu on this subject. Somewhere I hope ya’ll work things out better than they are now. If anyone asks me to help them find a legitimate locksmith I will personally do my best to do just that.
Tom Lynch said,
June 12, 2013 at 13:57
So at the end of all this, even Robin agrees that licensing is useless which means those individuals and organizations who are petitioning the legislature, attorney generals, consumer protection agencies and misleading the news media that licensing is wanted and needed to stop all this, are forwarding a false narrative. GREAT!
Thank you Robin. But I have one thing to resolve so Barry can get relief from the squabbling.
Quote Robin – “If anyone asks me to help them find a legitimate locksmith I will personally do my best to do just that.”
I have asked you earlier the following – “I can give you certain access to contribute your time to make the directory. Would you like to do this?
You have provided no answer. If you say you want to help, now is the time. Your being asked for help now.
Are you willing to help with the directory? Yes or No?
bobhdus said,
June 12, 2013 at 17:51
Lots of interesting discussion here. Barry really gave the nest answer on finding a locksmith. As a Locksmith, I would recommend you look for a Locksmith in advance… Save their info in your phone. I think there are a lot of good people in SOPL and ALOA. I personally chose membership with SOPL as they seem more willing to help the little guys like me to succeed. I am mobile with a Van and use my personal home address as my Business Location. I don’t need and can’t afford to pay rent on two different places… I go to my area’s local Association and our website keeps a list of legit Locksmiths on our site (www.mkla.org). We also have our own scammer task force that looks into alleged Locksmiths that may be operating. I think that communities are best when they at least try to get their Locksmiths to sign up with local associations. If anything, they can call on someone else for help when they are over their head on a job. I would rather take a loss on a job that to have an unhappy customer. As a Newbie in the industry this happens frequently… But I always have a happy customer and the word of mouth is spreading and my business is growing. Thanks!
Robin said,
June 12, 2013 at 19:50
Tom if I may say so you aren’t quite reading me properly. I stated that scammers have had no problem getting licensed and as I am aware if they lose their license have someone else take it out to get around it. I also was told Run Local is going to be allowed to go back into business. Same thing happened with the dude in Colorado whose name escapes me at the moment, who paid a stiff fine and then made some “promises”
Would you not say this is a problem with the states themselves? Here you have stated you never ask for a doctor’s license to practice. Personally I think that is a KOOK thing to say because apples and oranges is what you are talking about. What are you suggesting? That no one should be licensed for anything?
Having SAID THIS which is a side topic altogether obviously because only fifteen states require locksmiths to be licensed (and I stated repeatedly I wasn’t here to discuss that topic whether or not news stories have given false assuredness on it-I am NOT here to discuss licensing) I don’t find you to be a friendly person frankly. Ever since I started to become interested in this topic I have spoken to locksmith after locksmith in friendly manner. This is not the case with you. You are asking me, someone not connected professionally to help with a listing? I would have been more than happy to have done this and consider it an honor to be asked but quite frankly you have rubbed me the wrong way. I am stating this openly here so as to be honest and forthcoming. Your temper and rambling putting words in my mouth is not a pleasant thing to experience. This is how I feel at the moment after having this above discussion with you.
Now I will close with sincere, absolutely sincere thoughts going out to every single legitimate locksmith who has been affected by a criminal band of non-professionals affecting your trade, causing you grief after grief with not enough being done to stop it. One suggestion I have is that the consumer does not care which association or even non-association a locksmith belongs to, much less internal squabbling between associations over various issues. The consumer ONLY cares if when they make a call they are going to get a legitimate locksmith on the other end of the line. I HAVE a local locksmith I have used in the past and will continue to call, but not all calls to a locksmith will be from your home. While AAA and any roadside assistance you may have will send out someone legitimate (correct me if I am wrong), many don’t have this coverage and resort to their smart phones to locate someone in an emergency. PLEASE don’t continue to blame the consumer while I know this may seem logical on your part for not being prepared, this is not always the case. Just about the only way you could be SURE of using that tactic is if somehow you got this advice into high school curriculums (isn’t going to happen), notices posted far and wide, force people to watch news programs giving this advice (isn’t going to happen) The only solution in my humble opinion is to put aside differences and cooperate on making listings regardless of association to benefit the consumer.
Tom Lynch said,
June 12, 2013 at 23:16
Okay, so your answer to the Yes or No question is – No you will not help, you just want to talk. Got it!
And you are once again reinforcing the point that licensing is a CON JOB. Thank you.
Let’s rewind Robin. I posted a nice post early on and you reply with a combative and snarly attitude, but I am to blame for your behavior? WOW! Really?
You then embark upon trying to discredit me and the SOPL for some unknown strange reason. You question every effort made to try to help you. I can’t help someone with an agenda. I am sorry.
You can be as frank as you wish but do not have the right to lie, mislead or make things up. I do not believe you are acting as a concerned consumer. I believe your closer to this issue than you portray and it is something I will now look closer at because no consumer would act so disrespectful towards people if they were asking for help.
Forgive me, but I have to write down yet another one of your off color make believe statements. You say I have stated something and you derogatorily try to infer that I am KOOK?
Please point out where “I” have said the following (you can’t because I never said such a thing) –
“Here you have stated you never ask for a doctor’s license to practice.”
It is about time you do a self inventory of yourself Robin and apologize. By making this claim I question just who the kook may be. Your all over the map and to be honest, I am not sure what locksmiths you seem to speak with, but have them call me because it certainly appears that your being fed by someone to post all this nonsense or the definition of a kook can be found under your own Holly Tree.
http://thehollytree.blogspot.com/
At no time have I blamed the consumer. I provided you a non existent satirical news article title which was intended to be a guide on how to select a service provider. Do you know what a Satire is?
If any advice to consumers is to stop looking for cheap and shopping by price offends you then then your not really looking for advice from experts and the lowest advertised price will prevail. Caveat Emptor! I don’t sugar coat things, and if that’s what your looking for, then you will get ripped off.
If you would take a step back for one moment and calm down, and show some respect you may get some help. I’m not sure if anyone has ever told you to be quiet in your life, but your bullying does not rattle me.
I provide you my time out of respect for someone who tells me he knows you, beyond that your disrespectful nature will not be tolerated whether you claim you are a consumer or an abusive stay at home activist who has no cause.
You have exhausted any mutual courtesies.
Robin said,
June 13, 2013 at 17:12
My bullying? Please. I repeat, I don’t give a fig which or not which association any locksmith belongs to. Neither do most consumers except that SOME may automatically think that advertising membership in any locksmith association means they are legitimate and by some I mean they even know what that association is. I assure you most do not. They are consumers looking for a locksmith, Period!
Now we have Tom Lynch denigrating those customers looking for the lowest price. My God how far do you want to dig your hole Mr. Lynch? Wake up and smell the coffee as to how offensive you would sound to oh say an elderly person on a fixed income who is in immediate need of a locksmith? Or someone who has lost their job and in danger of losing their home. You want to knock them for “shopping” it and choosing the lowest price locksmith when they may not even know about the locksmith scam? Geebus!
“If any advice to consumers is to stop looking for cheap and shopping by price offends you then then your not really looking for advice from experts and the lowest advertised price will prevail. Caveat Emptor! I don’t sugar coat things, and if that’s what your looking for, then you will get ripped off.”
There is something missing in your thinking Mr. Lynch. I suggest you take a major chill pill because you certainly don’t come off as customer friendly or sympathetic to those who get duped by these con-artists.
When you wake up and realize that a major step in the direction of helping the customer find legitimate locksmiths is a win win situation for all involved, customer and locksmith alike, you may “get it”. When customers have a REAL means to find legitimate locksmiths then and only then will the scammers be choked off.
PS believe it or not I DO have legitimate locksmith’s interests at heart.
soplnews said,
June 13, 2013 at 18:24
Your a dishonest person Robin.
Your also struggling.
You can’t point out where I said anything about doctors licensing? Why is that Robin? I love how you danced away from this. Because your a person who is not honest and no consumer should give any attention to your recommendations.
Educate yourself before you spout off ignorantly about a persons concern and customer care. I think Ray Miller, a REAL consumer would disagree with your ignorant attacks. Listen to the end.
Gaza Project – Ray Miller Fraud Victim Takes Action – http://www.sopl.us/lock-radio-interviews.html
If you do have legitimate locksmiths interests at heart – then you are supporting Run Locals interest by the fact that they are licensed. They are considered legitimate because of people like you who are clueless. You want regulatory oversight and they have been deemed worthy by investigators and state authorities. You and your pals got what they wished for aside from all the warnings by myself and others, and now it is embarrassing for you and those who have been feeding you the false narratives. Take ownership.
There is no way around it and you cannot have it both ways. Yes, the consumer does have ways to find good locksmith, but you just can’t be quiet long enough to listen.
Yes, you are bully and you are not a consumer.
Robin said,
June 13, 2013 at 19:47
^^^ I rest my case. Have a good day Mr. Lynch. As God is my witness I am done with this conversation.
Your’s and Barry Campbell’s attitudes towards licensing of any sort can be read here. Barry Campbell being a board member of SOPL or whatever you wish to call it. You are correct, it was Mr. Campbell referencing medical licenses which in turn has nothing to do with the cost of tea in China per my participation in this conversation.
READ: I Robin KNOW licensing of locksmiths (done only in 15 states) does not guarantee the consumer getting a legitimate locksmith.
Can you READ Mr. Lynch? Falling off my chair laughing because according to Barry Campbell licensing of doctors only guarantees a higher price charged.
Barry Campbell:
Mr. Mullins,
A doctor or an electrician or a plumber having a license is no assurance of quality or ability, but a pretty sure indicator of higher prices (PS the rest of his comment is irrelevent because once a doctor loses his license for whatever reason he no longer can legally practice medicine! WHICH has nothing to do with licensing locksmiths which I have NO interest in arguing about!!!!)
http://www.sopl.us/4/post/2013/06/definitive-proof-that-locksmith-licensing-is-a-con-job-what-your-not-being-told.html#comments
My last word repeated umpteen times, I did not come here to discuss licensing! You want to make it so but I have repeatedly said I did not. You Mr. Lynch have wanted to smokescreen with this. So in light of that I provided the proof of loony comments, albeit from Mr. Campbell.
Goodbye and good riddance. I do NOT care about your fight against licensing or ALOA’s fight to implement this. Got it?!!!!!
Tom Lynch said,
June 13, 2013 at 22:23
I am adding yet another guffaw from you. – Barry Campbell is not a Board member, the SOPL does not have a Board.
Please spend time educating yourself and stop making things up.
http://www.sopl.us/faqs.html
You can’t even sight your sources correctly, so what does that tell all the concerned consumers reading what you post? You a very, very confused and there is no way to help you until you let go of your rage.
Honestly, Robin I am uncomfortable having a dialog with a person who refers to themselves in the 3rd person – ” I Robin” – It is a bit creepy and your dishonesty is troubling.
Should you have an issue with Barry Campbell, then direct your rage and agenda towards him. He does not hide his identity and is easy to contact just like me. I am confident he can “try” to help you. I’m just not sure you will listen. I never did get an apology.
By the way, why do you hide your true identity?
Your dishonest display here in this blog certainly is not resonating with the news media, professional locksmiths, and license board members who have contacted me for consultation and expressing kudos for the work of the SOPL and its thoughtful analysis of the situation and participation in advancing the craft. In fact, you seem to be a lone wolf, a rudderless ship in the night.
The difference is these people understand what is happening, they are respectful and they listen and engage in thoughtful educated debate or constructive dialog. You had a chance to participate, but you are not interested in helping the consumer, as much as you are with your militant agenda.
I wish you the best, and hopefully you will learn to listen to others as we have all listened to all your mistakes.
Mike B said,
June 14, 2013 at 13:02
Are you two done getting to know each other yet? : )
Robin said,
June 14, 2013 at 17:34
Yes Mike and I should have taken your advice to not engage. Keep up the good work in fighting this stuff. Yes I absolutely realize licensing is not stopping the scam. I think I said that more than once. Heavens to Betsy it’s easier than pie to find all of Run Local’s “credentials” in Arizona where they are still apparently in business. Quite sickening. In Colorado the dude got slapped with false advertising (1/2 arrival time). Still in business though there too it seems. Anyhoo……… yes I am done.