There are more ways to unlock a lock than simply using the key. Unfortunately, with the internet’s all-seeing presence, thieves, burglars, and home intruders have never had it easier when it comes to learning how to break in.
Two standard property access techniques are lock picking and lock bumping. It can be very difficult to spot the signs, especially with lock bumping, since it can leave no visible damage.
Here’s the difference between lock picking and lock bumping and how to watch out for signs someone’s tampered with your locks.
Lock picking vs lock bumping
The vast majority of household locks are pin-and-tumbler. Inside are a series of pins. You turn the key, with its unique blade shape, to configure the pins to the ‘shear line’. This process allows the door (or window, box, car, etc.) to open.
Lock picking involves two specialist tools: a wrench and a pin. Both are simultaneously inserted into the lock. The wrench is used to apply tension to the pins before the pin moves each one individually to the shear line. Lock picking is tricky to master, but it can leave no damage when done skilfully.
Lock bumping utilises a bump key. This specialist tool is also inserted into a lock before another tool is used to ‘bump’ it. The key is turned, and its clever design means the forceful action jumps all the pins back to the shear line, opening the lock.
How can I tell if my lock has been picked or bumped?
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to tell, especially if someone’s done it skilfully. There might be no visible evidence at all, and the lock itself might function as usual. So, yes, it’s technically possible that someone could open a lock, look around and steal things, then leave (re-locking the door in the same way) without a sign.
In most cases, however, a criminal will leave some evidence behind. Look out for any of the following, which could be signs of either a picked or bumped lock:
- The key suddenly becomes stiff or doesn’t turn properly/at all
- New (shiny) metal scratches, chips or indents around the lock
- The door is left unlocked when you return
- Signs of someone being in the property, even if the door is locked
How do you protect against lock picking and lock bumping?
The best way to protect yourself against lock picking and bumping isn’t with new, advanced locks. Instead, consider getting extra security measures, such as alarm systems, CCTV, security lighting and dogs. Combined, these make your property too much effort for most would-be burglars to bother attempting to gain access.
That said, looking for locks explicitly marketed as anti-pick or anti-bump is a sure way to protect yourself against intruders. In general, the cheaper the lock is, the easier it’ll be for anyone without a key to gain access.
Another more modern option is the use of keyless locks and entry systems. These are much more common on commercial properties than residential ones, but you might have a use for them. Think of key fobs, PINs, retina or fingerprint scans, and so on. A little extreme, maybe, but there isn’t any part that can be picked or bumped.
For the most up-to-date and relevant information, consult a locksmith for personalised advice.
Do locksmiths use lock picking or lock bumping?
Locksmiths use both lock picking and bumping to legally gain access to properties and vehicles, where it is permissible to do so by law and they have the property owner’s consent. Lock picking is generally the less damaging of the two, although it might be necessary to change the locks afterwards. Lock picking or bumping might be required when you get locked out of your house or car or when a key suddenly stops working (a potential sign of tampering).
At Grays Locksmiths, we know it’s never nice to get locked out or suspect someone’s tried to get into your home. As a member of the Master Locksmiths Association, we help people in and around Nottingham daily with emergency locksmith services to get you back in your house or car in no time.
Do you need some help getting back in? Perhaps you’re worried about potential signs of tampering or break-ins. If so, we’re here to provide expert assistance. Give us a ring on 0115 942 2315 or email us at hello@grayslocksmiths.org, and we’ll be out to help as soon as we can.