When the need to utilize the services of a locksmith arises, it’s not only important to find a reliable locksmith, but also to choose a secure method of payment. Whether you pay by cash, card, or loan, each of these options has its pros and cons. Let’s find out which options are the most reliable and how to avoid fraud when paying for services.

What types of payment for locksmith services are considered the most reliable?

Payment security depends on payment transparency, fraud protection and the ability to recover money in case of error. A bank card is one of the most reliable ways, as it allows you to control transactions, receive a statement of payments and in case of fraud to challenge the operation. However, it is important to use the card only at verified payment terminals.
Cashless transfer through online banking is another safe option, especially if you pay for the service through an official company. Such a payment can be tracked, and in case of problems, the bank will help sort out the situation. Many large locksmith services work on a cashless basis, providing invoices and receipts.
Online services that work on the principle of prepayment through a platform also provide additional protection. If the technician did not perform the service or did it poorly, the customer can request a refund through the service.

How to avoid card payment fraud?

Despite the convenience of bank cards, it is important to take precautions when using them. One of the most common fraud schemes is the installation of fake terminals that read card data. To avoid this situation, always make sure that the payment goes through certified equipment.

Another important point is to check the amount before confirming the payment. Sometimes fraudsters intentionally enter an inflated cost, counting on the inattention of the client. It is also worth avoiding cases when the master offers to pay for the service by entering the card data on a third-party site – such sites can be fake.

Safe ways to pay by card:

• Checking the recipient’s details before the transfer.

• Payment through bank terminals of well-known services (for example, Sberbank, Alfa-Bank, Tinkoff);

• Using mobile payment systems (Apple Pay, Google Pay) that do not transmit card data;

Should you trust cash payments?

Payment in cash is convenient, but carries certain risks. Firstly, once the money is transferred, it is impossible to prove the fact of payment if the locksmith disappears or provides poor quality service. Secondly, fraudsters may demand an advance payment and then refuse to perform the work, knowing that the client will not be able to return the funds.
However, in some cases, cash is the only option available. If you decide to pay in this way, make sure that the master gives a check or at least a receipt. In the case of working with official companies, such receipts are mandatory.

What online services help me transfer money safely?

If you don’t have cash or a card handy, you can use online payment services. The most reliable platforms for transferring funds are instant payment systems (e.g. PayPal, Revolut) and service aggregators (YouDo, Profi.ru). They act as intermediaries, protecting the client’s money until the job is done.
Some mobile applications, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, provide additional security as they do not pass real card data to the merchant. This reduces the risk of online payment fraud.

What mistakes cause you to lose money when paying for services?

Incorrect payment actions can lead to financial losses. One of the common mistakes is transferring money to the personal card of the master without a receipt or confirmation of the service. In case of fraud, it will be almost impossible to dispute such a payment.
It is also worth avoiding payment on unfamiliar sites. Sometimes fraudsters create fake pages for online payments, where the card data are intercepted by attackers. To avoid becoming a victim of fraud, pay for services only through trusted platforms and official terminals.

Как проверить, что платеж прошел успешно?

After transferring funds, it is important to make sure that the payment has actually reached the recipient. To do this, you can:

• Check the notification from the bank or a record in the mobile application.
• Request a receipt or a receipt from the master.
• If the money was debited, but the service was not rendered – contact the bank and dispute the payment.

The main ways to verify the payment:

• Confirmation of the transaction through the mobile bank;
• Receipt of SMS-notification about debiting of funds;
• Checking the payment status in the transaction history.