Lock bumping - is the threat of home invasion even greater now?
submitted: 2008-04-12 00:44:39 |
by: JohnCarven
Total views: 20 |
Word Count: 442 |
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Lock bumping became big news at 2005's Defcon when 11-year-old Jennalynn showed an exceptional talent for being able to bump almost any lock set in front of her. This year she again shows her talent by bumping the Medeco M3 high security lock, a lock that is supposedly un-bumpable!
The technique of lock bumping (or key bumping) involves modifying a regular key with a file so that when you use it inside a lock and hit it upwards, the cylinder pins inside jump. The process is repeated until eventually the key is able to turn and the lock opened. Almost any kind of door lock that you use today are capable of being picked in the manner.
It is thought that the history of lock bumping goes back to Danish locksmiths in 1970. The story goes that they were looking for a faster way to open locks and they developed this method. The public first became aware of the trick in 2005 when an European news program revealed how to use a bump key.
Bumping a lock has really spread thanks in part to the Internet and the many local news programs showing how easily the method works. The reporters and online videos are helping spread a mild panic throughout our society. Everyone from businesses to stay at home moms to the elderly are concerned. And since home made bump keys are quickly and easily made with a regular key and a file, the threat is actually quite real in some areas.
There is an inherit design flaw with the pin tumbler locks being sold today. When you apply an upward force to the lower pins in a tumbler, some of that energy get transferred up to the top pins. That in turn pushes the spring up for a split second and creates a gap that the bump key exploits.
So, because of this, lock bumping is a serious problem. But many critics just say all you need to do is replace your existing locks with a new Medeco or Schlage type lock that has a better design. Well, young Jennalynn shows that this too is creating a false sense of security because she can open these new locks.
So what can you do to protect your home and family from being a victim of lock bumping? Easy options are installing the very best new locks you can afford. They might be hard enough to bump that they will scare away an amateur. Other options include installing motion sensitive outdoor lighting and a home security alarm. Professional thieves look for easy targets and if you do all of that, there is a good chance they will go elsewhere.
About the Author
The security of your home begins with your doors and locks at home. If you seek to upgrade the safety and look of your home, consider installing weiser locks. They are both stylish and secure.
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