CLEVELAND -- If you think your home is safe just because the door is locked, think again.

There may be a way for bad guys to slip into your house with very little effort using something called "lock bumping," reported NewsChannel5's Tracy Carloss.

Many homeowners have never heard of lock bumping, but thieves are well aware of the technique, and they are brining it to their victims' front doors.

It is becoming the method of choice for walking into homes quickly and quietly.

Locksmiths like Mark Santee have used lock bumping for years, and now the tools of the trade are in the hand of thieves.

"Two-thirds of thief or entries don't show signs of entry. This is one of the techniques that has been publicized and more and more people are using it to break into houses," said Santee.

The standard deadbolt lock may not be enough to protect your home.

Experts say that the key to protecting your home and family could be in a lock that has multiple technologies and uses a more intricate key.

Dual function locks can run between $75 and $100 or more. Bratenahl police Chief Paul Falzone has a free alternative.

"The best defense is a good, nosey neighbor. Don't fight with your neighbor, keep friends with your neighbor. The safest neighborhoods are ones that watch out for one another," Falzone said.