Tonight a warning about a tool burglars are using to break into homes, a tool anyone can buy online. 5's Daryl Philips uncovers why your home could be vulnerable to key bumping.
You lock your door and expect to be safe, but you may not be the only one who has a key to your home. Bump keys are specially cut so that when used properly they can open almost any lock.
Locksmiths use the keys as part of their job but in the wrong hands, they can be trouble.
A key will only turn if it lines up all the pins inside the lock. When a bump key is used with some force, the pins are pushed up into the lock, giving the key room to turn and open the lock. It takes some practice, but after a few tries I had the hang of it.
Anyone can get a bump key...we bought them online and found plenty of video's showing how to use them. Most thieves already know how to use bump keys so you need to know how to protect yourself. To be safe you can buy an anti-bump lock from a locksmith.
High security anti-bump locks are made with more pins than regular locks and use keys made with lots of intricate cuts. The locks cost about $75 each. For some, a small price to pay to secure your home.
