Lock bumping is a growing concern among homeowners, locksmiths, and businesses. This technique has been discovered to be able to bypass over 95% of standard locks, rendering doors vulnerable to unauthorized access. But have you ever wondered how a bump key works?
If yes, you’re not alone.
In this article, we'll explain what bump keys are, how they function, and most importantly, how you can protect your home from lock bumping with the best tips.
Part 1: What Is a Bump Key?
Bump keys, also known as “999 keys”, can bypass the security mechanisms of traditional pin-and-tumbler locks. These keys are designed with deep cuts to the maximum depth (999), and they can bypass almost any lock without leaving any visible signs of forced entry.
How Does a Bump Key Work?
A bump key exploits the mechanics of a pin-and-tumbler lock.
The pin-and-tumbler lock has two prominent components in each stack of pins - The Driver pins, which are located on top of the lock cylinder and are driven by tiny springs, and the Key pins, which are located beneath the driver pins and make contact with the key when the lock is in operation.
Bump keys exploit this mechanism by disrupting the pins, such that when you insert the bump key into the lock and hit the key with something small like a screwdriver or mallet, the force gives a shock within the lock and pushes the driver pins upwards as the key pins remain stationary, pushing them down the shear line. In that brief instant, the lock can be opened quite easily by turning it.
In simple words, a bump key makes the pins - Driver pins and Key Pins - in a pin-and-tumbler lock align perfectly along a "shear line" where the cylinder rotates, making the lock open successfully without its original key.
Part 2: How to Tell If Your Lock Has Been Bumped
One of the scariest aspects of lock bumping is how stealthy it can be. But there are three signs that you can check for to see if your lock has been opened:
- Unusual Marks: Look for small scratches or dents around the keyhole, which may have been caused by the "bumping" process.
- Loose Cylinder: A loose lock cylinder is also an indication of a bumped lock.
- Unlocked Doors: If you find that your door is unlocked mysteriously with no obvious sign of a break-in, chances are it has been lock bumped.
Part 3: Protect Your Home from Lock Bumping - Keyless Locks
Lock bumping is disturbingly common, but the good news is that several tech giants have innovated advanced bump-proof keyless locks that households can now use in their homes.
In this part, we’ve introduced the top three eufy keyless locks that you can use to protect your home from lock bumping.
1. eufy FamiLock S3 Max - First Palm Recognition Lock
This palm recognition smart lock allows you to enjoy touchless and nearly-impossible-to-forge front door access using sub-palm vein patterns, which is unique to each individual and remain stable over a lifetime.
And it is Matter-compatible - which makes integrating it with all the major smart home platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, and SmartThings a breeze.
2. eufy Video Smart Lock S330 - 3-in-1 Lock
The eufy Video Smart Lock S330, as the name suggests, combines a 2K camera and a doorbell to boost your home security. It keeps an eye on your doorstep by recording and notifying you of any unusual activity.
3. eufy Smart Lock C33 - Budget Option
The eufy Smart Lock C33 is one of the options for anyone looking for a safe, rugged smart lock with a budget limit.
This lock offers various ways to secure and access your door, including fingerprint recognition. What sets it apart is its handle grip, making it more user-friendly for those accustomed to traditional locks while still enjoying the benefits of smart technology.
Conclusion
Understanding the dangers of bump keys is the first step toward better home security. While traditional locks are increasingly vulnerable, modern solutions like the eufy Smart Locks provide unmatched protection.
We recommend that you upgrade your home lock to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family and belongings are safe.
FAQs
Will Insurance Cover Theft When Your Lock Is Bumped?
Most insurance policies require proof of forced entry. Since lock bumping can leave no visible evidence, it’s crucial to review your policy and upgrade your locks to prevent this issue altogether.
Are Bump Keys Any Good?
For professional locksmiths solving lockouts, bump keys can be helpful tools. However, in the hands of burglars, they serve as tools for theft, making them dangerous for homeowners.
Is It Illegal to Own a Bump Key?
Laws regarding bump keys vary by region. While they may be legal to own for locksmiths, possessing one without justification could raise legal concerns.