A protective metal plate designed to secure a door’s latch mechanism against forced entry, spanning the entire vertical length of the door frame adjacent to the strike plate. It shields the vulnerable area where the latch engages, preventing prying or shimming attacks intended to bypass the lock. For example, in commercial buildings or high-security residential areas, these devices are frequently installed to augment existing security measures.
These security enhancements are vital components in a layered security approach, providing an extra layer of defense against unauthorized access. Their adoption can deter potential intruders and increase the overall resistance of a door assembly to physical attacks. Historically, simpler versions have been utilized, but modern iterations offer improved materials and designs for superior strength and longevity, addressing evolving security threats.