There so many ways for an intruder to enter your home. Now there is another method that has actually existed for more than a half century. Lock bumping has found a resurgence among thieves and is gaining momentum.
What You Need to Know About Lock Bumping
Lock bumping has been utilized by locksmiths for over fifty years. They used this method when they needed to access a lock with no key available. The process was not readily known to the criminal community. Picking a lock was the tried and true method, but took a lot of time and needed specific tools and training.
Lock bumping is non-invasive and quick. There is often no sign that a lock has been bumped, whereas other methods are noisy and messy, leaving lots of evidence that the lock was compromised.
Lock bumping requires a bump key. This is basically a key that is the correct size for the lock, but is cut to a maximum depth. They are often referred to as “999” keys as the ridge cuts are set to a depth of nine on a key-making machine. This makes them extremely easy to replicate and only take a few minutes to make. Older locks tend to be more resistant to this method as their internal pins do not move as fluidly as newer, modern locks.
It is hard to tell how commonplace lock bumping is in break-ins due to the fact that the method does not leave any sign of forced entry, and the lock still works like new after the bumping is completed.
What can be done to Prevent Lock Bumping
There are a myriad of videos, instructions and articles online on how to bump locks. That being said, the thing here is to acquire stronger locks, especially ones with added security features. Some excellent suggestions are as follows:
- Adding additional pins to the locks using a professional locksmith. This does not mean the lock is resistant to bumping, but it will make it much more problematic for a thief. This is also the most cost-effective solution.
- Attaching chain latches to the exterior doors can help deter a would-be thief, as it is just one more barrier they would have to get through.
- You can replace existing locks with bump-resistant locks, which are much more expensive. Lock bumping will not work on these expensive locks!
- Installation of a good home security system will detect when an entrance is compromised, setting of an alarm or alerting authorities once the lock has been tampered with.
Lock bumping should be taken as a legitimate concern, but priority should be given to the simple task of making sure all doors and windows are always tightly locked at night and when no one is in the house. Once the house is secured, consider additional ways to bolster all exterior defenses and make them even stronger!
Always Feel Secure and Defended in Your Home
Learn more about residential locksmith services and the wide array of locks and additional services we offer. Contact All American Locksmiths in cities and towns throughout Connecticut, including New Haven, Hartford and Fairfield. Use our convenient online form, or call us 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (203) 752-1464.
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