What is lock snapping?

Whilst locking your doors is crucial and a step we all take, it can sometimes be insufficient to prevent burglars from breaking into your home. More and more burglars are breaking into properties by utilising lock-snapping tactics, with research showing that lock snapping occurs in nearly 1 in 3 burglaries in the UK.
Because it is a quick and simple way to enter a property, lock snapping is becoming a bigger issue. Additionally, because it's so easy, burglars only require a few minor tools, which makes it more difficult for authorities to prove that a suspect is trying to rob homes if they are apprehended. Unfortunately, a lot of homeowners don't realise how easy it is to protect themselves, which is why we’re breaking it down for you.
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What is lock snapping?
Lock snapping is a technique used by burglars to enter a home, often those with a euro cylinder lock. It’s increasing in popularity because the perpetrator needs zero skills and minimal tools to do it.
Nearly all residential homes with UPVC doors have euro lock cylinders that are prone to lock snapping, however, many composite and aluminium doors also employ them. These cylinders are frequently found in both residential and commercial settings.
When lock snapping, burglars will break off the external part of a euro cylinder lock to gain access to the lock's internal components and enter the house- it only takes around 5-10 seconds.
Michele Bennett, General Manager at ADT UK Subscriber says “Whilst it is extremely important that you lock your doors, that is often not enough to deter burglars from entering your home. An increasing number of burglars enter homes using lock-snapping techniques, which allows them to enter your home even when your door is locked.”
How do I tell if I have a door that’s vulnerable to lock snapping?
Euro cylinder lock doors can often be identified at a glance. Look for the following:
- Shape of the lock – is the lock a cylindrical shape with a keyhole in the middle?
- Shape of the keyhole – is the keyhole straight?
If you can see these, there’s a good chance you have a door lock that is susceptible to lock snapping.
How to prevent lock snapping
Preventing lock snapping requires an approach with multiple precautions. Below are some effective methods you can implement.
Install anti-snap locks
Using anti-snap locks is one of the best and easiest ways to reduce the danger of lock snapping. Even with force, the cylinder won't snap thanks to the strengthened mechanisms in these kinds of locks. Try to find locks that are authorised by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) or that satisfy British Standard TS007 (ideally with a three-star rating).
Upgrade your door hardware
There are a couple of upgrades you can make to your door hardware to prevent lock snapping:
- Cylinder guards: metal plates that surround the lock cylinder, making it more difficult to snap or grasp.
- Security handles: made to resist force and provide greater protection against intruders
Install security and CCTV systems
Think about purchasing CCTV cameras. When paired with an effective alarm system, security cameras lower the likelihood of a break-in at your home. ADT cameras also feature Perimeter Guard that use noise as an audible deterrent if movement is detected.
Video doorbell
Video doorbells are also a great option. They not only allow you to see and speak with whoever is at your front door, wherever you are, but they also act as the first line of defence as a visual deterrent. They can work in tandem with CCTV systems because they notify you immediately when the doorbell is pressed, or motion is detected.
Make intruders think you're at home
Like a conventional timer switch, smart plugs allow you to control the lights in your home from your smartphone at any time. Even though lock snapping is a quick method of entering your property, burglars prefer no one to be home. With a smart plug you can even vary the timings at which they turn on- making it look like you’re there when you’re not.
We take security seriously at ADT. If you want to know the next steps if your home has been broken into, our expert guide will help guide you through.