How to Defeat a Bump Key
A bump key is a shaved-down key that, with a sudden jolt, can toss the top pins in a tumbler lock above the cylinder simultaneously, letting the cylinder to turn and the lock to open - allowing thieves to enter your home. The bump key merely needs to have the same number of pin slots as the lock has pins, and the cross section of the key has to fit. For a demonstration of how fast they work, see the demonstrations provided in the Reference section below. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- One or more of the following:
- Multiple door locks
- Bump-proof door lock
- Key-less door lock
- Cylinder protector
Instructions
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1
Use multiple locks per door, made by different brands. The more locks, the more bump keys the burglar must prepare in advance. Even better, having one door inside the other keeps a burglar on the outside from knowing what key to bring.
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2
Install bump-proof locks. Such locks prevent full alignment of the pins when jarred suddenly. Pick-proof locks are a subset of bump-proof locks, so be careful. "Pick-proof" does not necessarily mean "bump-proof." Medeco, Schlage Primus, Assa and Mul-T-Lock make bump-proof locks. Expect to pay at least $100.
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3
Add a lock that doesn't use keys. Keypad locks and combination locks are examples.
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4
Add a cylinder protector. They cover the lock opening. Opening the cover can require, say, a magnetic key. See the Resources section for a photo.
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5
Use a layered approach. In addition to an a second lock, also install a burglar alarm and motion-triggered floodlights.
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Tips & Warnings
A bumped lock leaves no sign of a forced entry, since the bump key fits into the lock. This may make proof of theft to the police or insurance company more difficult. The provides added incentive to prevent such a crime.
