The bumping burglary method: how it works and how to protect yourself

Quick answer: bumping is an opening technique that opens conventional cylinders in seconds, leaving barely a trace. The way to protect yourself is not to watch the door, but to change the cylinder: a certified anti-bump cylinder (Keso, M&C, Tesa) neutralises the technique, and if you combine it with an armoured escutcheon you shield the most attacked point of the door. At S1 Locksmiths (Mijas) we advise you with no obligation and give you a fixed price over the phone: 663 225 104.

What bumping is (defensively)

We already explained in detail what bumping is in another article. In short: it's a method that exploits how a standard cylinder's pins work to open it with a sharp tap, without visibly forcing the door. That's exactly what's worrying: as it leaves no obvious marks, it can complicate an insurance claim. We won't go into the "how" here — we go straight to what really matters: how to prevent it.

Vulnerable locks

Conventional, basic or old cylinders with no specific protection are the most exposed. Signs that your cylinder may be vulnerable:

• It is many years old or came "as standard" with the door.
• The key is flat and simple, with no special dimples or milling.
• You can copy the key anywhere without an ownership card.
• There is no recognised security brand on the cylinder.

Locks that really protect you

• Anti-bump certified cylinders from brands like Keso, M&C or Tesa.
• Systems with special pins and anti-impressioning, anti-pick protection.
• Key-copy control card: nobody duplicates your key without your permission.
• Physical reinforcements: armoured escutcheon and security deadbolt.

The most effective protection: anti-bump cylinder + escutcheon

The winning combination is an anti-bump cylinder + armoured escutcheon. The cylinder neutralises fine opening (bumping, picking, impressioning) and the escutcheon stops force attacks (drilling, extraction). Separately they leave a gap; together they shield the most attacked point of your door. With this combination you make a huge leap in security, with no building work and in under an hour. We give you a fixed price over the phone.

How do I know if my cylinder is secure?

The quickest way is for us to check it. On a visit we identify the make and protection level of your cylinder and tell you honestly whether it's worth changing. If it's already anti-bump, we won't sell you a new one. Call 663 225 104 or ask us with no obligation: we are local Mijas locksmiths, APFC certified, open 8am to midnight.