Reading time: 8 minutes / Lars Buchwald / 20.06.2025

Burglary Protection Myths – and What Really Helps

Table of Contents

→ That only happens to other people …

→ Myth 1: “A good lock is enough”

→ Myth 2: “Alarm systems are a guaranteed deterrent”

→ Myth 3: “Burglars come at night and use lock picks”

→ Myth 4: “If they want in, they’ll get in anyway”

→ Personal Experience: When Prevention Suddenly Becomes Visible

→ My Conclusion: Security Is Not a Myth – It’s Achievable

→ Key Takeaways on Burglary Protection

Some time ago, I spoke with one of our locksmith customers. He was visiting us to buy some tools and told me about an incident that happened just a few weeks earlier: An elderly couple near Bonn was convinced that their high-quality locking cylinder was more than sufficient. Their firm belief: “No one’s getting in” and “There’s nothing worth stealing here anyway.”

That only happens to other people …

With angelic patience, our customer tried to explain to them that leaving windows tilted open while away from home is a bad idea – even with a high-end lock. Unfortunately, they had to learn that lesson the hard way: Three weeks later, burglars used a simple screwdriver to pry the window open – and found themselves in the living room. As it turned out, there actually was quite a bit to steal… but that’s not the point. Speaking from personal experience, I can say: a break-in is far more than “just” the loss of valuable items. It’s the disturbing realization that a stranger has violated your most personal, supposedly safe space. That intrusion doesn’t just shake your sense of security – it leaves deep uncertainty and fear. What remains is not just material damage, but a feeling of helplessness and distrust. It took me a very long time to truly feel safe and comfortable again in my own home. This case clearly illustrates how misleading a subjective sense of security can be – especially when it's based on widespread myths. From our perspective as a manufacturer of lockpicking tools, it's high time to debunk these misconceptions and raise awareness for real security risks. In this article, I want to bust exactly those myths. Not theoretically – but with experienced insight from the field.

Myth 1: “A good lock is enough”

Sure, a good lock is important – but it’s only part of the picture. Many people underestimate that burglars often target the weak points around it: poorly anchored fittings, outdated door frames, or windows that can be pried open with a screwdriver in seconds. What really helps: Burglary protection starts with the big picture. Professional security consultations reveal vulnerabilities that laypeople often miss. Modern protection strategies combine mechanical security (e.g. certified cylinders, reinforced fittings, mushroom head locking mechanisms) with deterrents (e.g. lighting and cameras).

Myth 2: “Alarm systems are a guaranteed deterrent”

Many people rely on their alarm system – and are surprised after a break-in that it didn’t do the job. The problem is blind trust. Alarm systems are important – but they usually alert you *after* someone is already inside. And that’s exactly what you want to avoid. What really helps: Secure things mechanically first, then enhance with electronics. A door that doesn’t open in the first place doesn’t need a siren. Also: if you invest in an alarm system, make sure it’s high quality and professionally installed. Cheap systems with weak Wi-Fi or faulty triggers cause more risk than protection. By the time you’ve had your second police call-out, you might be shocked at the bill.

Myth 3: “Burglars come at night and use lock picks”

Thanks, Hollywood. Most break-ins actually happen during the day – between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when no one is home. And instead of using advanced lockpicking tools, burglars mostly rely on screwdrivers, crowbars or – quite simply – open windows. What really helps: Break your daily routines. Always close windows, even if you’re leaving just briefly. Involve your neighbors, inform delivery drivers – and stay aware that burglars don’t come with snap tools or pulling bells, but with basic levering techniques.

Myth 4: “If they want in, they’ll get in anyway”

This attitude is unfortunately widespread – and dangerous. It leads to resignation instead of prevention. Yes, 100% security doesn’t exist. But most burglars give up if they don’t succeed quickly. Studies show: If they can’t get in within 3–5 minutes, many abandon the attempt (Source: met.police.uk). What really helps: This is exactly where good security technology comes in – it buys you time. If you can block easy access, you’ve already won.

Key Takeaways on Burglary Protection

About the Author

Lars Buchwald has been an integral part of the Multipick team since 2006, where he dedicates his passion and expertise to marketing and graphics. As a trained graphic designer and copywriter, he brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his work, which enables him to convey the messages of the ingenious tools in an appealing and convincing way. With a keen sense for the needs of the target group, he steers Multipick's marketing fortunes. His commitment is characterized by a high degree of sensitivity and the right richer at the right time. 

As a native of Bonn, Lars not only has close ties to the region, but has also firmly integrated his passion for marketing spear tools into his professional work. His attachment to the city is reflected in his work and gives his marketing campaigns an authentic, Bonn touch.

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