How Burglars Try to Bypass Locks (And How to Stop Them)

Understanding the methods burglars use to defeat locks — and the defenses that actually work — is the foundation of practical home security.

2026-10-15 · 7 min read · Security

Home security advice often focuses on alarm systems and cameras, which are valuable — but the physical security of your doors and locks is the first line of defense. Understanding how burglars actually defeat locks (based on crime data, not movies) helps you invest in defenses that match the real threat.

Method 1: Kick-In (The Most Common)

The most common residential entry method by far is simply kicking the door open. This isn't about the lock — it's about the door frame. A standard residential door frame is often secured with short screws that grip only the thin door jamb material, not the underlying stud. A hard kick applies enough force to split the jamb and pull those screws out.

Defense: Replace your strike plate with a heavy-duty version (ANSI Grade 1 or steel reinforced) secured with 3-inch screws that reach into the framing stud. Door frame reinforcement kits (around $30–$50) dramatically increase kick resistance. This is arguably the single highest-value security investment for most homes.

Method 2: Bump Keys

Bump keys are specially cut keys that, when struck with a tool while slight rotational tension is applied, can momentarily set all the pins in a standard pin tumbler lock simultaneously — allowing the plug to rotate.

Defense: Upgrade to a deadbolt with anti-bump pins (spool or serrated driver pins). This doesn't eliminate vulnerability entirely but makes bumping significantly harder and time-consuming. Security pin cylinders are available as replacements for most standard deadbolt housings.

Method 3: Picking

Lock picking is a skilled technique that most burglars don't use — it requires practice and the right tools, and it takes time. However, it's a real method for sophisticated actors.

Defense: Anti-pick cylinders with spool or serrated pins increase resistance. High-security locks (Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, ASSA ABLOY) provide documented pick resistance. For most residential applications, Grade 1 hardware with security pins is sufficient.

Method 4: Breaking Glass

Entry through windows or glass doors doesn't involve defeating the lock at all — the burglar just breaks the glass.

Defense: Laminated safety glass is significantly harder to break quickly and quietly. Window and door sensors connected to an alarm system make glass break attempts more likely to trigger immediate response.

Method 5: Credit Card / Shimming

The "credit card" trick works on spring latches (the angled bolt in a doorknob) when the strike plate is incorrectly positioned, leaving a gap. It absolutely does not work on properly installed deadbolts.

Defense: Ensure your exterior doors have properly installed deadbolts (not relying on spring latches alone). Adjust the strike plate so there's no gap at the latch.

Method 6: Drilling

Drilling a lock is noisy, takes time, and requires equipment — but it's reliable. Burglars willing to risk the noise of a drill typically target specific high-value properties.

Defense: Anti-drill locks with hardened steel inserts significantly slow drilling. High-security lock bodies are made from materials that deflect or wear out drill bits.

The Practical Summary

For most Miami-area homes, prioritizing investments in this order provides the best return: 1. Reinforced strike plates with 3-inch screws (addresses kick-in, most common method) 2. Grade 1 deadbolts with security pins (addresses bumping and picking) 3. Door frame reinforcement kit (addresses kick-in on older frames) 4. Good outdoor lighting (general deterrence) 5. Alarm system with glass break sensors

If you'd like a professional assessment of your home's physical security vulnerabilities, Caraballo Locksmith offers security consultations for Miami-area homeowners.

Include the supporting hardware in your assessment with our guide to door frame reinforcement and strike plates.