Standard pin-tumbler locks can be opened in a matter of seconds by bump-keying. A specially cut key is repeatedly tapped with a small hammer, causing the pins above the shear line to jump and allowing the lock to be opened. A bump-key can be made using any key or key blank and a hand file.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=131j0htYIoU
"High security" pin tumbler locks with sidebars and other extra features can be opened quickly and easily using modified versions of the bump-key technique.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOIRZnafgQk
Euro-profile locks can be snapped in half with a pair of pliers or a crude lever, allowing the latch mechanism to be operated with a screwdriver or metal hook.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqhhXyROxQM
Most lock barrels are made from soft metals that can be easily drilled out with an ordinary HSS or carbide bit. An inexpensive tool can cut through most barrels in seconds.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEPe7aLfqrs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i32QexNZmb8
If you want any real degree of security from your door locks, you need to opt for a specialist and expensive cylinder - something with a hardened steel face and a disc detainer mechanism, like the Abloy Protec series. Good disc detainer mechanisms are practically unpickable, even for expert locksmiths. Although it is possible to drill a lock with a hardened steel face, a specialised cutting tool is required and the process is very slow on most cylinder types.
I thought I'd try and raise awareness of how easily keys can be copied from photos. That combined with geocoded tweets is just asking for trouble.
It's not mobile friendly unfortunately.
Which is easier than filing down regular keys I suppose.
If someone really wants to come in, they can easily do so.
