You see it in the movies all the time. A slick protagonist needs to explore the bad guy's abode, so he whips out a card, wiggles it in the crack of the door, and strolls right on in. However, in real life, it's not a universal lock pick technique, nor is it legal (if you don't have permission to enter). But, it is a pretty cool thing to know how to do, especially if you find yourself locked out of your own home!
Step's:
- Choose your largest, most easily flexible credit card. You may want to use something other than a credit card if it's more flexible and disposable (such as gift cards, membership cards, or any other plastic laminated cards - fake credit cards that you get in the mail are perfect).
- Slide the card into the vertical crack between the door and the frame (where the lock is) as far as it will go at a perpendicular angle with the door.
- Tilt the card so the side that's closest to you is almost or is touching the doorknob. Push it again until you feel it slide in more.
- Bend the card the opposite way, forcing the lock to go back. Quickly open the door.
More tips and images here