2026-01-12 – Weekly Locksmith News : Camry accused me of theft mid-job

Last week on the locksmith forum, members engaged in detailed discussions about the pros and cons of different deadbolt throws, with a focus on security implications. There was also a lively debate on setting up pinning benches that can adapt to various job sizes and needs. Commercial lock audits drew attention, especially on how to scope them effectively. Lastly, handling toolmarks on wet locks sparked practical advice and shared experiences.


This Week’s Hot Topics

1-inch vs 3/4-inch deadbolt throw
This discussion weighs the security benefits of different deadbolt throws. It’s a great read for anyone considering hardware upgrades.
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Pinning bench that scales and integrates
Members are exchanging ideas on creating flexible pinning benches that grow with your business. A practical conversation for any locksmith.
Read more here

Scoping a commercial lock audit
This thread covers strategies for conducting thorough commercial lock audits, a must-read for those tackling larger projects.
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Preserving toolmarks on a rain-soaked cylinder
Discover tips from the community on handling and preserving toolmarks when the weather isn’t on your side.
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Camry accused me of theft mid-job
A locksmith’s unexpected encounter with a car’s security system raises questions about handling technology during jobs.
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Best boring jig for clean deadbolt installs
If you’re looking to refine your deadbolt installation process, this thread offers some useful advice on choosing the right jig.
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The fob that fought back
A fascinating story of a resilient key fob that led to a deeper discussion on technology in locksmithing.
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Bench setup for large master key rollouts
Get insights into efficient bench setups for managing extensive master key systems. Essential for those handling big projects.
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Smart deadbolt with a sense of humor
A light-hearted look at a smart deadbolt with unexpected quirks, showing the human side of technology.
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Handheld for OSDP/Wiegand and strike testing
Explore the latest tools for testing security systems and why they might be worth considering for your toolkit.
Read more here


Looking forward to another week of engaging discussions and practical advice. Keep sharing your knowledge and experiences.

Happened to me on a 2019 Camry — mid-job the Safety Connect alert pinged the owner and dispatch, . Since then I get a signed work order first, snap a timestamped pic of VIN/plate/ID, and keep a bodycam running; it calms things fast when alarms start. On “deadbolt throws,” longer isn’t magic — if the frame’s mushy, spend the extra 10 minutes on a reinforced strike instead.

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I start a 30–60 sec speaker call with the owner before I touch a connected Toyota, so if Safety Connect pings they hear the unlock live and confirm me in real time, @mitchelld90 — only caveat is it’s awkward in loud lots.

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Got flagged on a 2022 Camry while the owner was in a Zoom — . Since then I run an e-sign work order before arrival and shoot a 10–15s clip that shows my badge, the plate/VIN, and me stating the customer’s name and callback; that video has twice smoothed things with responding officers. If you need a simple template, ALOA’s forms are solid: https://aloa.org, though a bright dash placard helps too in a busy lot, @mitchelld90.

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I have the customer send a pre-filled “I authorize Mitchell to access VIN ___ / plate ___ at ___” text with a quick selfie by the car before I touch tools. If the Camry tattles mid-unlock, that SMS thread and a magnetic “Locksmith on site” door sign have kept dispatch and neighbors chill, @d_thomas92.

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