How to tell if your lock is secure

Your lock is secure if the cylinder is anti-bump and anti-snap, the key has a property card, and the door has strong (ideally multiple) locking points. If you have an old, unprotected cylinder, it is a weak point — and easy to fix. Here is how to check your own lock and the signs that it is time to change it.

How to check your lock

• The cylinder: is it a modern high-security one (anti-bump, anti-drill), or an old basic model? Old cylinders like the Ezcurra DS15 open in seconds.
• The key: does it come with a property card? If anyone can copy it at a hardware shop, that is a risk.
• Locking points: does the door close at several points (multipoint), or just one? More points = more resistance.
• Anti-snap: a good cylinder resists being broken in two — a common attack on cylinders that stick out.

Signs it is time to change it

• A very old cylinder with no anti-bump protection.
• A key with no property card (uncontrolled copies).
• The lock is hard to turn or the key sticks.
• After a move or lost keys — you never know how many copies are out there.

The fix is usually simple

In most doors you do not need to replace the whole lock: swapping the cylinder for a high-security anti-bump one is quick, affordable and instantly raises security. If you are unsure, I can check it for you.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my lock is secure?
Check whether the cylinder is anti-bump and anti-snap, whether the key has a property card, and whether the door has multiple locking points. An old standard cylinder is a weak point.

What are the signs I should change my lock?
A very old cylinder, a key with no property card, a lock hard to turn, or after a move or lost keys.

Is changing the cylinder enough?
In most doors, yes — swapping to a high-security anti-bump cylinder is quick and instantly raises security.

Want your lock checked in Fuengirola?

I'm Santiago, an APFC-certified locksmith in Fuengirola and Mijas. I check your lock and tell you honestly whether it is secure and what upgrade is worth it, with a fixed price and an invoice, every day from 8am to midnight. Send me a photo on WhatsApp.