Trying to figure out if a burglar has been tampering with your lock can be difficult, especially when the signs are not obvious and you don’t know what you’re looking for.
It’s important to carefully examine your door lock if you suspect something doesn’t look right.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant, door lock tampering is something you need to deal with as soon as you recognize the signs.
Here are the most common types of lock tampering you should pay attention to.
1. The Use of Brute Force
When a burglar uses brute force to attempt a break in, they will try to bash in the lock, drill through the deadbolt or kick down the door.
This method of breaking in may leave more obvious signs, such as paint scratches around the door frame, bent deadbolts, warped doors or frames and debris of wood in case you have a wooden door.
If one of these signs weren’t visible when you last locked your door, then it most likely means someone attempted a break in and you should report it to the police right away.
2. Lock Picking
Another common type of door lock tampering is lock picking. This method is preferred by burglars because it usually leaves little to no signs.
Small tools, such as flat screwdrivers and a pick, are used to turn the lock and rake the pin tumblers.
Tiny, fresh scratch marks or the appearance of shiny metal around the keyhole, which are finer than those created by a key, are usually signs of lock picking.
In some countries, such as Japan, Hungary, or Poland, it’s illegal to own lock picking tools, and the penalties are quite strict.
3. Lock Bumping
Lock bumping is a technique that doesn’t require special equipment. It’s one of the fastest and easiest ways for burglars to break into a home.
At the same time, the process is quite noisy, so it can definitely draw the neighbours’ attention.
This method can leave a few traces, such as nicks around the edges of the keyhole, or shiny metal around the edges, which is due to the forceful hitting.
Having a bump-resistant lock can protect you from this type of break-in, so it’s worth considering when you decide or need to change your door lock.
In the UK, the government created the British Standard TS007 Kitemark which rates locks from a bumping point of view from one to three stars. The higher the star rating, the greater the protection it offers.
Upgrade the Security of Your Home and Protect It Against Door Lock Tampering
If you notice any of these door lock tampering signs, it’s important you report your situation to the police as soon as possible. The second thing you need to do is call a locksmith so they can come and upgrade your locking system.
This is an essential step which will help you prevent potential break-ins because it’s going to deter intruders.
Whether you are looking for a quote or want to book a locksmith, feel free to contact us at 0800 0612 677 anytime you need our help.
We know time is of the essence in these cases, which is why we’re available 24/7 and we aim to get to you within 30 minutes, so you can rely on us whenever you have an emergency.
