Invisible Locks: Securing the Unseen

Invisible Locks: Securing What you can’t see

By: Ganesan D 23 Jun 2025 Category: Threat Intelligence/threat Handling

What is a pick-proof lock?

A pick-proof lock is a specialized door lock that claims to withstand lock picking, bumping, and other malicious lock manipulation techniques. A pick-proof lock has special security features that make lock picking extremely difficult. For a truly secure setup, pick-proof locks are best paired with multiple devices, such as deadbolts, security cameras, and alarm systems. Pick-proof locks often take the form of high-security, smart lock boxes and electronic locks.

How common is lock picking?

According to the FBI, over 60% of criminal break-ins involve forced entry, while over 30% involve lawful entry. The frequency of lock picking isn’t recorded in statistical data. Remember that most lock-picking cases might not be reported or even noticed if nothing is stolen or vandalized.

What we do know is that the art of lock picking has become popular thanks to movies and other media. Lock-picking guides and videos on YouTube and TikTok get hundreds of thousands of likes and views. In other words, lock picking is available for anyone who wishes to seek it out. As a result, if a lock isn’t pick-proof, then somebody can break in after doing some light research. Scary, right?

What is lock bumping?

During your journey toward a better key-locking system, you’ll often encounter the major security concern known as lock bumping. Lock bumping is a form of lock picking that involves taking a key specially cut to fit into most locks.

The intruder inserts the key almost into the lock and then strikes the lock with their hand or a heavy object. This can release the pins that hold a lock in place and grant the intruder entry. Key bumping is a cruder method of lock picking that takes way less skill (which is why it’s so concerning). It’s a good idea to purchase locks that specifically mention that they are “bump-proof.”

How do pick-proof locks work?

Pick-proof locks are built in a way that makes lock picking extremely unlikely. For starters, most pick-proof locks are high-security locks that use different-looking keys than you are probably used to. These keys are often thicker, with intricate grooves. Moreover, these keys are often difficult to duplicate at your local hardware store. As a result, they are expensive to replace.

A pick-proof lock often features sidebars that prevent pins from being jostled loose if someone attempts to lock bump. Pick-resistant locks also often feature an extra set of tumblers within the key cylinder that render typical lock-picking tools useless.

Is there a lock that is pick-proof?

Yes, there are many locks that, by all intents and purposes, are pick- and bump-proof. However, you will find very few that make this claim. Instead, most “pick-proof” locks on the market are labeled ” pick-resistant ” for legal purposes.

Can anti-pick locks be picked?

Anti-pick locks are, conventionally, unable to be picked even by a professional locksmith. However, plenty of tools can still disable and break a lock. Nothing is ever truly impossible, just highly improbable. That said, you should feel pretty safe from being lockpicked with an anti-pick lock.

How do you protect a lock from being picked?

The best way to prevent a lock from being picked is to purchase a pick-proof lock or install an access control system that utilizes electronic door locking technology and other security features. Locks within buildings secured by an access control system are less likely to be picked because only authorized people can enter the building. Electronic key lockboxes within the building are the perfect storage place for keys so they are not stolen and cloned.

The top pick-resistant locks to buy are:

1.Medeco M3 Cam Lock. This lock features triple locking action and claims to be highly difficult to duplicate a key for. It features a sidebar that protects it from lock bumping. The website features a step-by-step process for fitting a Medeco lock to your doors.
2.BiLock deadbolts. These locks use 12 pins in two rows, which makes lock picking extremely unlikely. They also feature a sidebar system that prevents lock bumping. Only authorized dealers can provide replacement keys for this device. You can also easily change the core of your BiLock if you have a contractor or other designated person coming and have provided them with an alternate key.
3.EVVA MCS Locking system. In addition to being both bump and pick-resistant, this locking system has many other benefits. It features patent protection through 2035, cannot be reproduced by 3D printers, and features magnetic and mechanical codings that only work with specially designed keys. The system itself can be customized for your property before installation.

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