According to a recent survey by Co-op Insurance, nearly one in three homeowners has experienced the trauma of a home break-in.
Amid rising concerns about burglary, a Birmingham-based lock expert—known online as the Brummie Lock Picker—has shared a simple yet surprisingly effective tip for improving front door security. His short tutorial on TikTok has attracted widespread attention from curious viewers.
A Simple Trick to Deter Burglars
In his video, the locksmith demonstrates how keeping a key slightly turned in the lock can make it almost impossible for intruders to pick. When the key is partially rotated, it blocks the internal mechanism of the lock, creating an unexpected barrier that frustrates attempts to tamper with it.
However, leaving the key straight in the lock without turning it can actually make things easier for thieves. As the expert explains, a second key or a similar object can be inserted from the outside to push the key out, allowing for a quick and silent break-in. This small oversight could compromise the entire security of your home.
Why a Slightly Turned Key Makes a Difference
“If someone tries to pick your lock, they first have to push the key out,” the specialist explains. When the key remains upright, it leaves enough room for a thief to insert another key or tool, making the lock more vulnerable. But when the key is turned slightly, it obstructs the mechanism, making it far harder to manipulate.
The locksmith shows that in this position, even external tools struggle to move the bolt, turning this small daily habit into an easy yet powerful layer of protection.
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Mixed Reactions from Viewers
While many praised the advice, not everyone is convinced of its foolproof nature. Some viewers questioned whether the technique would truly stop a determined burglar.
“What if a thief just breaks a window and reaches in to turn the key?” one person asked, pointing out a possible weakness.
Another commenter added, “Do burglars even bother picking locks anymore? Smashing a window is quicker and noisier, but it works.”
Others, however, highlighted a different benefit—safety during emergencies.
“Having the key already in the lock could save your life,” one viewer wrote, recalling her own experience surviving a gas explosion and a fire. “Those extra seconds can mean everything when you need to get out fast.”
Though opinions differ, the Brummie Lock Picker’s advice serves as a reminder that sometimes, the smallest precautions can make a meaningful difference in home security.
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