Lock bumping is a common technique used by burglars to open deadbolt locks and cylinder locks by using a uniquely designed key known as a bump key. This particular technique is extremely powerful and is capable of opening a variety of locks in no time. In this guide we shall look at what lock bumping is and also how you can prevent burglars bumping your lock to gain unauthorized access to your property.

The lock bumping technique has gained global popularity over the years due to its effectiveness and simplicity. Tutorials on YouTube and also online shops where 3D printed bump keys are obtainable for as little as $2 have made this technique accessible and available to anyone.
Resources:
www.sunlakeslocksmith.com
wikipedia.com
kwikset.com

Studies show that no traditional lock is bump resistant and with the correct bump key, criminals can open up to 90% of locks in under 20 seconds. What is surprising is the fact that most of the newer locks are vulnerable to bumping in contrast to the old locks.

How lock bumping works

Bump keys are unique keys that are cut to take advantage of the pin tumbler locks mechanics. It’s a standard key with all the cuts set at maximum depth to be able to fit in any locks. First, a bump key should correctly match the keyway of the lock. If the bump key fits into the lock, there is definitely a chance that it will open the lock. One can purchase a complete bump key set on EBay for about $20, which can open virtually any lock, and if burglars are afraid of ordering it online, they can alternatively design a homemade bump key with just an old key and also a triangular file. With a set of around ten bump keys with distinct profiles to match the most common lock keyways, burglars will be able to unlock up to 90% of all common locks available, including pricey high-security locks.

Bumping a lock

To bump a lock, one needs to insert the bump key into the keyhole then tap it using a screwdriver or hammer. This process will bump all the tumblers within the lock above the shear line. This effect can be compared to a pool cue hitting on billiard balls. In the split second in which the pins are in position, all the lock needs is just a slight torque to the right direction and without a doubt the lock will eventually pop open.

How to prevent lock bumping

There are several techniques you can use to avoid lock bumping and make your business or home much more secure, all with a different price tag and also different levels of security. Installing chain latches on your exterior doors can be a simple way to boost security in your home. This technique doesn’t modify your lock’s vulnerability to bumping, but it offers an additional layer to make it difficult for a burglar to bypass the lock.

Tweaking your current deadbolts and locks is a cost-effective way of making your locks much more secure. A qualified locksmith can tweak your locks by adding security pins to other existing cylinder locks to facilitate increased resistance to bump keys at affordable costs rather than replacing the entire lock. This option makes bumping difficult but not impossible.

If security is of importance to you and you would like to sleep comfortably knowing that your home is bump-proof, you can as well install brand new high-security locks such as Abloy deadbolt to your exterior doors in addition to door and frame reinforcements. These are top security deadbolt locks that make it difficult to bypass but not entirely impossible to exploit. BiLock provides a lock that has programmable sidebars and without top pins, and these particular locks are not susceptible to bumping and also nearly impossible to exploit.

Another choice is to install non-tumble locks such as magnetic/electronic locks or rotating disk locks. An electronic lock is bump-proof and utilizes electric current to power its locking system. Electric locks use motors, solenoids, and magnets to activate the lock through supplying or removing electricity. Additionally, electronic locks can be linked to an access control system to reinforce security.

Always seek advice from your local locksmith and also have a qualified professional audit your locks to ensure your home or office is safe from lock bumping.