How to Prevent Lock Snapping
Lock snapping is prevented by fitting a TS007-rated anti-snap cylinder — 3-star is the highest standalone rating — installed flush with the door furniture so there is nothing to grip. Standard unrated cylinders can be snapped in under a minute. Check yours today, or call 07984 547185 for an honest assessment.
Lock snapping is the burglary method most homeowners have never heard of and most burglars know well. It targets the euro cylinder found on millions of uPVC and composite doors: grip the protruding part, snap it, and the locking mechanism is exposed. Against a standard unrated cylinder, the whole thing takes under a minute and needs no skill.
The good news is that the defence is simple, proven and not expensive: a rated anti-snap cylinder, fitted correctly. This guide explains the attack, the ratings and what to check on your own doors.
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How the attack works
The euro cylinder protrudes slightly from most door handles — that protrusion is the handle the attacker needs. Gripped with basic tools and snapped, the cylinder breaks at its weakest point, exposing the cam that operates the multipoint lock. From there the door opens.
It is noisy but fast, which is why it suits burglars working empty houses in the daytime. And it leaves a distinctive signature: a snapped cylinder and a forced multipoint.
TS007: the rating that matters
TS007 is the British standard testing cylinders against snapping and related attacks. One star means the cylinder resists to a defined level; three stars means it stands alone without extra hardware. A 1-star cylinder with a 2-star security handle also reaches 3-star overall.
The rule is simple: look for stars, not adjectives. 'Anti-snap' without a TS007 rating is marketing; TS007 3-star is a tested fact. Genuine rated cylinders carry the markings on the cylinder face.
Check your own doors now
Stand outside each external door with a euro cylinder and look:
- Does the cylinder protrude beyond the handle? If yes, it can be gripped — fix the fit at minimum.
- Are there TS007 star markings? No markings means unrated.
- Is it 1-star? Decent — consider adding a 2-star handle for full protection.
- Is it 3-star and flush? Properly protected.
The upgrade
Upgrading means a measured, correctly sized TS007 3-star cylinder fitted flush with the furniture — the fitting is half the security. It is a single-visit job on most doors. For the full walkthrough of what the visit involves, see our anti-snap upgrade page, or call 07984 547185 for an assessment.
Frequently asked questions
What is lock snapping?
A burglary method where the protruding euro cylinder is gripped and snapped, exposing the lock mechanism. It defeats standard unrated cylinders in under a minute. TS007-rated anti-snap cylinders are engineered to break away safely while the lock stays secure.
How can I tell if my lock is vulnerable?
Look at the cylinder from outside: if it protrudes beyond the handle, it can be gripped. Then check for TS007 star markings — none means unrated. Both checks take seconds and need no tools.
Does a 3-star cylinder guarantee no break-in?
No lock guarantees that. A 3-star cylinder closes the snapping attack, but the door, frame and hinges still matter. Security is a system — the cylinder is the most attacked part, which is why it comes first.
Can I fit an anti-snap cylinder myself?
Measuring and fitting a cylinder is straightforward for a competent DIYer, but the sizing and flush fitting are critical — a wrongly sized 3-star cylinder still protrudes and still grips. If in doubt, have it fitted professionally.
How much does an anti-snap upgrade cost?
It is one of the most cost-effective security upgrades per pound. The exact figure depends on your door and the cylinder size — ring 07984 547185 and we will quote honestly for your doors.