I'm looking for ways to improve the security of my bedroom door. I've heard about the "credit card trick" where someone can slide a credit card into the strike plate to push back the catch, even when the door knob is locked. Is there a strike plate that allows me to reverse the catch mechanism so I can better protect my space?
4 Answers
Yes, some exterior locks come with a deadlatch extra pin that prevents those credit card hacks. Make sure the strike plate is well-adjusted so it sits correctly with the latch. Experiment with your front door's setup to see how it functions!
Deadbolts are really the best option for this kind of security concern. They offer a much stronger layer of protection against things like the credit card trick. If you're worried about security, definitely consider installing one!
But it's my bedroom, and I don't want to have to pull out a key every time. Can I still find a strike plate that works with my current setup?
You can reverse the latch by taking apart the door knob, but that leads to needing the knob turned to close it. The trick is that properly installed door knobs with a dead latch are already resistant to tricks like this. A new latch assembly might be the best answer without major changes.
Honestly, the credit card trick isn't a big deal. If the door's properly installed, it shouldn't be able to be opened from the outside unless you actually turn the knob. But if you're really concerned, you can look into better strike plates.
I just swapped out my knob for a locking one. If I choose one with this extra pin, will it really prevent someone from using a credit card? I’d hate to risk my security.