The weak link in your Home security setup - Part 2: Keys

The key, the easiest pass way to your home. And how many copies of the key to your home do you posses now? And do you have an idea how many copies are actually missing or in circulation (handed over to neighbors, maid, cleaning service or a repair man)? It is surprisingly strange to find that one of the most important security measures is often neglected. I have visited homes where I have seen the key to the main door lying idle on the desk, near a drawer and even on the teapoy. And considering that it is fairly easy to duplicate keys, anyone who has access to your home can easily steal a copy, duplicate it and replace the original and you wouldn’t even know. So who’s got your keys? 

Preventing unauthorized access 

Key control as it is called is the assurance that none of the keys to your home can be duplicated without your knowledge. One of the best ways of gaining complete key control is to use patent protected keys. Patent protected locking systems have multiple levels of security and incorporate more than one locking mechanism. It may include a tumbler mechanism, a separate locking sidebar and more. These locks are multi cylinder locks that can only be opened by specialized keys that are designed exclusively by the manufacturer. Most burglars look to gain easy access and to do it fast. Patented locks and keys will provide them with a new challenge at every turn of the key. This is what makes patent protected locking systems the most secure. It is next to impossible for anyone to duplicate the keys and gain access to your home. 

So how do I get a duplicate copy?  

A patented locking system cannot be duplicated by an average Joe from the street. Only authorized dealers will duplicate the keys and that too with your permission and knowledge. This gives you complete key control. 

Bump Proof keys 

If you have been seeking information on locks, keys and home security then key bumping will not be a new term to you. But if you are hearing it for the first time, then it is technique that has become extremely popular and is used for opening a pin tumbler lock using a bump key. The advantage of using a bump key is that one bump key can be used to open all locks of the same type. In fact, lock bumping can very well make a mockery of your ordinary locks. And the worst part is that these keys are freely available on the internet. Just about anyone including you can buy a bump key off the internet. Besides there are several websites that have instructional videos on making your own bump keys. And these videos are so detailed, that even a child can buy a bump key and use it to break into your home. 

So, you have to replace those old locks with more advanced high security bump locks and keys. A simple replacement is all that is needed to protect your home and assets from techniques like lock bumping. A bump proof lock is the best way to stay protected but it is also an expensive measure. High quality bump proof locks cost well over $200 and that is not a sum that everyone can afford. However, there is a relatively inexpensive way for you to convert an ordinary lock into a bump proof lock. Even your local locksmith can help you with it and it won’t cost you more than a few dollars. 

So the next time you wonder about the security of your home and keys, then think about these points that I have mentioned above.