The Dangers Of Lock Snapping

November 22 2023

With research showing that lock snapping occurs in nearly 1 in 3 burglaries in the UK¹, the security experts at ADT have explained what lock snapping is and have offered advice on how to deter it.

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.”

Lock snapping is becoming an increasing problem, because it is a quick and easy method of gaining entry to a property. It takes only a few seconds to snap the cylinder and manipulate the lock open. Furthermore, because it's simple, burglars only need a couple of small tools, making it harder for police to demonstrate that a suspect is looking to rob houses if they are stopped. Unfortunately, many homeowners are unaware, not only of how simple it is but also how simple it is to protect themselves.

With this in mind, ADT has explained what lock snapping is and offered our top tips on deterring thieves from entering your home.

What is lock snapping?

Lock snapping is a technique used by burglars to break into homes. It is most commonly used on doors with euro cylinder locks as they are weaker in the centre. To enter the home, burglars will snap off the outside component of a euro cylinder lock, giving them access to the inner workings of the lock. This means they can quickly unlock the door.

How can I prevent lock snapping?

Install anti-snap locks

The most effective way to prevent euro-cylinder lock snapping is to install anti-snap locks. When a euro cylinder lock is snapped, the inner workings are left bare, allowing intruders to open the lock. Anti-snap locks are designed so that even if locks are snapped, the inner workings cannot be seen and your home stays secure.

Keep an eye on your front door, even when you aren’t home

Consider investing in security cameras. Teamed with a good intruder alarm, security cameras reduce the chance of your home being broken into. While it is perhaps the most obvious, it is also one of the most effective. Consider cameras with two-way audio and an audible deterrent, such as ADT security cameras with Perimeter Guard.

Get a video doorbell

Video doorbells 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, notifying you immediately when the doorbell is pressed or motion is detected.

Light up your home

Smart plugs can be used like a traditional timer switch, but you can stagger the times they come on and you can even operate the lights in your home from your smartphone, no matter where you are. Also, your video doorbell and camera devices can work in collaboration with smart plugs so when they detect motion outside, the system can switch on lights to give the appearance of occupancy, even if you’re out.

Check out this quiz put together by the experts at ADT to make sure your home is secure: take the quiz