What is ‘Lock Snapping’?

23/11/2017

The methods by which a burglar will try to force access to your home go by a variety of names. On the whole, burglars tend not to be professional lockpicks. However, there is one technique for breaking and entering that has gained favour with professional burglars because it is an easy skill to master and doesn’t require specialist equipment. This technique is known as lock snapping and incidents are on the rise.

Definition of Lock Snapping

Lock snapping is a technique used by burglars to gain access to a property through the door. Using tools found in any domestic toolbox, the intruder can snap certain types of cylinder lock and gain access to your property.

Identifying Risk

The first step in identifying whether your doors are vulnerable to lock snapping is to examine your locks. If you have cylinder locks and you can’t see any Kitemark or three-star quality guarantee etched onto the barrel of the mechanism, then you could be at risk.

Defence Against Lock Snapping

You don’t have to go to all the expense of replacing a whole door just to secure your property from the dangers posed by lock snapping burglars. The cylinder mechanism can be replaced far more cheaply than the door. Cylinder locks that are not vulnerable to the lock snapping technique are widely available and can be fitted by your locksmith.

If you are in any worried that your locking mechanism could be vulnerable to lock snapping, give us a call and we will come and take a look at your locks. We can advise you on any upgrades that are recommended for security and fit the new locks for you. Call our office on 01603 812613 or email admin@ptlockandsafe.co.uk.

If you see anyone acting suspiciously around your property, call the police right away. If a crime is actually in progress, dial 999.