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Secure locks protect our property and offer peace of mind. However, a determined thief will find ways to tamper with door locks to gain entry. While some evidence is obvious, there are a few more subtle signs of an attempted break-in. Here are three ways a door lock may be tampered with and how you can tell.

3 Ways Thieves May Tamper With Locks

1. Evidence of Force

door locksA burglar looking to break in quickly will use force. They will bash, bang, and even kick in your entryway, leaving obvious signs of their attempts. You may see broken door locks, bent latches, or splintered and warped doors and frames. Some thieves will use tools instead of brute strength. In such cases, a hole where your lock once stood would be present. If they hastily put your lock back, you could see evidence in the paint surrounding it. It might feel loose or your key may not work anymore. The best defense against this aggressive approach is a security system complete with alarms, motion detectors, and surveillance cameras to scare away criminals.

2. Lockpicking

Lockpicking only requires a few tools like a flat screwdriver and a pick for the pin tumblers. The concept is to manipulate the internal workings of the lock without a key. It takes more skill and time than other break-in methods and leaves minimal visible damage. The biggest sign a lock has been picked is a series of tiny scratches around the keyhole. The best way to prevent picking is to upgrade to mechanical locks that don’t rely on pins and tumblers.

3. Bumping

Thieves will create a bump key to manipulate and open a door lock. The process includes filing down the teeth of a key so it has several sharp points. The burglar will insert and remove the bump key several times until all of the tumblers inside the lock catch, striking the lock with each attempt until the key opens the door. An experienced thief won’t leave a trace, but an amateur or someone working quickly will leave behind nicks near the keyhole or dents and dings in the door lock from bumping forcefully. Cylinder locks are easily opened with this technique. However, latch chains can help, as can bump-resistant locks or modified deadbolts with additional pins.

 

For almost 40 years Mr. Lock Security has provided Cincinnati with locksmith services and home and business security options to keep properties safe. Their team is licensed, bonded, and insured and can help with everything from door locks and safes to security cameras and alarm systems. Call (513) 232-2424 or visit their website.

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