Common locks mistake people make compromises home security - but there's an easy fix

One mistake could be making our homes less secure (stock photo)

We’re making a big mistake with our home security.

We all know how important it is to lock our doors when we leave the house, and most of us do the same when we go to bed for the night to ensure that we’re protected while we sleep. But one security expert has said that many of us make a huge mistake that means our homes aren’t as secure as we’d like to think – and it could be giving potential burglars easy access.

It takes just nine seconds for someone to snap a standard front door lock if they know how, but according to Nick Dutton, security expert and CEO of Ultion, some of us make a mistake that makes it even easier – by not properly locking our doors in the first place.

Nick told The Mirror that 10% of burglaries happen “through doors that aren’t locked” to begin with, explaining: “The most obvious mistake that homeowners make is forgetting to turn the key.”

He went on to explain that there’s a “common misconception” that “one-star” locks – which are British Kitemark certified to one star – can provide “complete protection”. However, while one-star locks should protect against drilling, bumping, and picking, Nick said: “Without additional 2-star rated security, this lock on its own won’t protect the most common form of break-in – lock snapping.”

The expert also shared that while alarms and cameras “are useful” in deterring burglars, it’s still important to make sure you have a “physical barrier” to prevent them from getting in – such as a strong lock. He added: “It is also important to protect your keys and know they aren’t falling into the wrong hands. As well as carrying the maximum available accreditations, Ultion also comes with Key Control to stop people from being able to copy them without your permission and also the option of KeyTag where you can find your key using the Apple Find My app.”

Lock snapping requires “very little skill” and means burglars can gain entry to your home in “seconds” – so security experts at Ultion are recommending Brits change their locks to more secure types. In fact, they’re so sure that Ultion locks won’t snap that they’re offering a £5,000 anti-snap guarantee, which is valid for five years from the date of installation.

The guarantee is available on Ultion 3-star Plus locks, as well as Ultion 1-Star and 2-Star handles. And if you’re looking to upgrade your smart home security, you can invest in the Ultion Nuki smart lock, which is also covered by the guarantee.

Nick explained: “True safety isn’t just about stopping the problems we already know about, but also getting ready for the ones the bad guys haven’t even thought about yet. This idea is what drives all the hard work and testing we put into our locks. We’re always looking ahead, making sure our locks are not just strong now, but ready for whatever challenges might come up next.”

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