CMK

Good points there in your post, and I used Mul-T-Lok key (£70 per lock) systems with anti-bump pins on my houses, but even probably half of these Anti-Bump locks can be defeated by someone who is skilled / determined enough.

I also got rid of every uPVC Door on the houses and fitted Composite doors which offer far more security than the uPVC doors. My first house had White Aluminium Double Glazed Windows and Doors (Monarch System) which were more expensive but kept the thieving gits out.

A good quality hardwood door is also a better alternative to uPVC. It's a shame that we have to resort to this increased security, but the amount of burglaries normally do increase during tough times like at present. Bring in the law that some American States have........

ATM

It is estimated that millions of doors across the UK could be at risk from a method of attack where the door lock cylinder (Barrel) can be broken in just a few seconds.

Although for obvious reasons I cannot disclose the exact tools or methods used by burglars to snap the Euro-profile style cylinders or how to "bump" them, the knowledge of how to do this is becoming more widespread.

No matter how secure the uPVC door's multipoint locking system is, it can easily be overcome once the cylinder has been removed and many burglars know they can easily smash, tear or bump the conventional cylinders in seconds, using simple everyday tools.

This method of attack has been increasingly used by raiders over the last two years and now that knowledge of this method is becoming so well known the threat can only grow further. This could not only mean there is no sign of forced entry in cases meaning insurers may not consider a claim along with the inevitable stress, heartache and loss of irreplaceable property.

Replacing these locks for the new "anti-bump" and tear resistant locks takes only a few minutes, they can be bought off ebay registered businesses or other reputable locksmiths sealed complete with three brand new keys for around twenty or thirty pounds per door. (cheap peace of mind) I fitted these to both my front and rear door in half an hour.

For more information place the words "anti bump locks" into Google to read about the problem....then place the same search words into ebay if you don't want to be caught out or decrease the chance of becoming a victim of this increasing crime, it will only get worse as the recession deepens...sorry for the doom & gloom. !