How do I protect myself from bump keys?
- Clear Visibility. Keep the landscaping around your home and office as clean as possible.
- Neighborhood Watch. Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Security Camera.
- Anti-Lock Bumping Devices.
- Install Security Pins.
- High-Security Locks.
- Light Commercial Grade Locks.
- Keyless Deadbolt Locks.
How can I prevent lock bumping?
This deluge of online information regarding lock bumping has created an increase in public concern regarding how to protect against this method of intrusion. The best way to prevent lock bumping is to replace your traditional lock with a bump-proof keyless lock, such as the Lockey 2835 mechanical keyless lock.
What is a bump key?
Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine. These keys are relatively easy to produce (it typically takes less than five minutes to cut a bump key), and not very difficult to acquire. How Does a Bump Key Work?
How can I protect my home and office from burglary?
Keep the landscaping around your home and office as clean as possible. Criminals look for brush that covers the home so they can hide behind it while they’re trying to gain access. Places that have wide open spaces and good lighting deter these intruders.
Can a burglar break in with a bump key?
Now lock bumping and bump keys can be found all over the Internet which make it even easier to compromise conventional pin tumbler locks. And a burglar that breaks in with a bump key shows no visible sign of forced entry, but further examination from an expert can determine if the pins were manipulated.
Do burglars use bump keys?
The keys are increasingly being used in burglaries across the country. The keys - which are modified to be able to open many kinds of locks -- are increasingly being used in burglaries across the country, police say.
Do bump keys break the lock?
The "bumper" needs to bump the key hard enough to jar the pins, but not so much that the lock or key is damaged. Bumping the key causes the pins to jump slightly. Even this slight amount of motion is enough to allow the bump key to turn the cylinder, unlocking the lock.
Can you lock a deadbolt with a bump key?
Today's Null Byte is going to demonstrate how to effectively make what is called a "bump key". A bump key can open any lock that it fits into. It's helpful to have in your pocket if you ever lose your keys, because it can open your door lock and your deadbolt, even if they normally require seperate keys.
How do you stop a deadbolt from being picked?
Even though it may take some time to pick a deadbolt, many burglars are well equipped to handle it with ease. Choose a lock that has a high security cylinder if possible. These locks will have a special pin inside of them, which cannot be picked using a standard tool.
How do you tell if your lock has been bumped?
Signs of bumpingFresh nicks around the edges of the keyhole from pounding the key a little too forcefully.Shiny metal edges that look like they've been recently hit.
What is an anti bump lock?
Anti-bump locks work by having more pins and specially made keys, having shallow pin stacks to prevent them 'jumping' up or locks that have programmable side bars and no top pins. Locks that use rotating disks also protect against bumping, keeping your door securely shut.
How common is lock bumping?
Lock bumping is a very easy technique to learn and perform, requiring virtually no special skills. About 90% of households in America have entry doors equipped with a lock that can be bumped. It's a non-destructive lock-picking method, meaning that there's likely to be no sign of forced entry.
Are Kwikset locks bump proof?
It's bump-proof -- really Many of the arguments against Kwikset that you'll find online focus on a practice called "lock bumping." To bump a lock, a thief will insert a special key called a bump key into the deadbolt, then tap on it with a blunt object like the handle of a screwdriver.
What is a 999 key?
Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.
Is there a pick proof lock?
4:576:43No. Absolutely not they're not gonna be able to pick this lock because there's no keyhole to pickMoreNo. Absolutely not they're not gonna be able to pick this lock because there's no keyhole to pick there's not even any indication that this lock is on the door.
Are there locks that can't be picked?
Pick-resistant locks have an extra set of tumblers or locking apparatus so that, in effect, the key has to do two things at once. Because of their resistance to manipulation, these locks are also resistant to key bumping. One of the most popular pick-resistant locks is the Medeco.
What is the hardest deadbolt to pick?
In no particular order, here is our list of 5 Most Challenging Locks to Pick.Master Lock Speed Dial 1500iD. Seasoned Lock Picker Bosnian Bill goes over the components of the Master Lock Speed Dial 1500iD on his YouTube channel. ... The ASSA Abloy Protec2. ... Evva MCS Gen 2. ... HYT Chain Key Lock. ... Banham M2002.
What Makes a Lock Vulnerable to Lock Bumping?
The same innate mechanism of what makes the lock secure is exactly the same thing that makes it vulnerable in the first place! See, the driver pins and key pins all keep contact with one another through a tension created by a spring. They are not designed to separate except for when the cylinder barrel is rotated.
The Lock Bumping Technique Itself
The whole deal behind being able to bump a lock successfully is applying the force properly. After inserting the key in the lock, the key must be pulled back from the lock by one notch, giving you the space which allows you to create the momentum necessary by giving it a firm, but controlled strike into a full and deeply inserted position.
Proven Ways to Combat Lock Bumping
If you find yourself the victim of a home burglary which was carried out by lock bumping, the most terrible thing is, as you have probably guessed, is that there are no apparent signs of break in. There are no signs of forced entry: kicked in doors, no broken windows, etc.
What Is The Lock Bumping Technique?
Lock bumping is the name of an old locksmithing technique used by pros in order to open a door whenever the key was missing. The procedure involves the use of a special key that is placed inside the keyhole, then tapped with a screwdriver. The result: the pins jumping into line, making the lock open for a brief moment.
Why Are Pin Tumbler Locks More Vulnerable
First things first, pin tumbler or cylinder locks are lock mechanisms that rely on pins of various sizes in order to stop the lock from opening unless the right key is used. The same mechanism is also part of tubular pin tumbler locks. Their interior mechanism can be easily picked with the help of the bumping technique.
Which Locks Have Anti-Bumping Properties?
Basically, you should steer clear from cylinder locks – especially older models. Deadbolt and mortise locks could represent good alternatives, especially since deadlocks are known for their anti-bumping features.
Anti-bumping Commercial Solutions
Offices, shops, warehouses, and other commercial spaces should also be protected against the lock bumping threat with the help of advanced lock solutions. Locksmith Locator handles all types of commercial locksmithing services on a 24-hour basis. Get in touch with us and let us tell you what are the best solutions for your custom needs.
What is a bump key?
Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.
How does a bump key work?
Using a principle of physics similar to what makes “ Newton’s cradle ” work, the energy produced from striking the bump key is transferred to the pins inside the lock, causing them to jump and create a temporary shear line, allowing just enough time for the intruder to quickly turn the lock and open the door.
What percentage of locks are bumped?
The practice of lock bumping has become a major concern among homeowners and businesses in recent years, and for good reason: Recent industry studies estimate that more than 95 percent of conventional locks on homes and businesses are vulnerable to being compromised by lock bumping.
Is bumping a lock effective?
When executed correctly, lock bumping is effective in nearly 90 percent of all cylinder-type locks produced today. Perhaps one of the most disconcerting aspects of lock bumping is that it can often go undetected, which means that your home can be broken into without any signs of forced entry.
What is the best way to make a lock harder to bump?
Install Security Pins. You can either take your locks to a locksmith or have them come to you to install special pins that will make the lock harder to bump. These pins are commonly referred to as, security pins. They are designed to bind before they reach the lock’s shear line.
What is the best way to prevent a forced entry?
If you decide to upgrade your locks entirely, also consider that good locks are only a fraction of the security equation. A door with a solid core and frame, a high strength strike plate, and strong door jamb are key to preventing a forced entry which is the number one method of entry after lock bumping.
What is a high security lock?
Installing a high-security lock means that no unauthorized key copies can be made. High-security keyways are patent protected which means that only one manufacturer can make the key and only issues that specific key to a security or locksmith company. A high-security lock is made of the strongest material. The locks are heavier, the screws are ...
When did bumping and bumping keys become illegal?
It wasn’t until 2002 that criminals gained knowledge of this and began using this technique as a means of illegal entry. Now lock bumping and bump keys can be found all over the Internet which make it even easier to compromise conventional pin tumbler locks.
Can you bump a keyless lock?
If you decide to install a keyless lock, make sure it is bump proof. Many of the older ones still have key cylinders that can be lock bumped.
Can you prove a claim is fraudulent without a locksmith?
Security Camera. Since lock bumping does not leave any visible sign of damage, it is hard to prove to insurance companies that a claim is not fraudulent without hiring a professional forensic locksmith. As an extra security measure, install cameras by your main doors.
Is Schlage a bump resistant lock?
Lock manufacturers like Schlage have also attempted to manufacture bump resistant products for commercial use. The Schlage SecureKey locks were made to resist picking and bumping, but they have been shown to not be as secure as the company had claimed. 8. Keyless Deadbolt Locks.
Why do locksmiths use bump keys?
Professional locksmiths often use this technique to gain access to locks whenever a key has been lost or stolen. The reason why it’s called lock “bu mping” is because a specially cut key (known as a “bump key” or a “999 key”) is inserted into a lock and then struck–or “bumped”–with a screwdriver or some other object in order to open the lock . Using a simple principle of physics, the energy created from striking the bump key is transferred to the pins within the lock. These pins jump up for a fraction of a second, creating a shear line that allows the cylinder inside the lock to turn, which then enables the lock to be opened.
Can you trade in your keys for a code?
Trade in your keys for a personalized code you can’t lose. With a convenient thumb-turn for entry and exit this maximum security deadbolt makes your home bump proof, and Teflon coated stainless steel interior parts make the lock one of the most resilient. You’ve worked hard to have a beautiful home, but what good is it if you can’t get in it.
History of Lock Bumping
The first known version of the bump key was patented by Hiram R. Simpson in 1928, which he called the “rapping key”—as seen in the image at the bottom of this section.
How Do Bump Keys Work?
To fully grasp how lock bumping works, we need to briefly cover two things.
How to Prevent Lock Bumping?
Lock bumping can be a terrifying thought to any homeowner, but it doesn't need to be.
Where Can I Buy a Bump Key?
Like most lock picking tools, bump keys can be found at every corner of the internet.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Lock bumping is extremely effective and can bypass nearly 90% of locks used today. It is also a subtle form of bypassing that can be undetectable—meaning you may never know your lock was compromised.
Final Words
Bump keys are a genius lock picking tool that can quickly and simply defeat a huge majority of locks.
Best Beginner Set!
"Art of Lock Picking has truly been a great help in learning lock picking. I ran across their lock picking guide, bought these picks per recommendation of that guide and have opened everything I have stuck my picks in so far. Can’t wait to see what I am picking in a few months!"
