Last Updated on August 24, 2023 by Christopher G Mendla
This article will give you the creeps..
Someone can scan your keys with their phone, then have them made on demand at a kiosk..
The problem – Many keys can be duplicated by taking a photo of them
It is possible for someone to compromise your keys by taking a photo of the key. There are legitimate services that will create a duplicate key based on a photograph.
How it can be done
The first step is for someone to take a picture of your keys. Today’s phones offer amazing resolution. Once they have the photo of the front and back of the key they have a few options to make a working duplicate.
Key duplicating services
Key duplicating services such as keyme can make a key from a photograph. You can get the key mailed to you or make it at a local kiosk.
There are other services available, some on the darknet
Basic mechanical skills
Someone who is skilled with a dremel tool and files could probably copy a key from a photo in fifteen minutes or less. The photo can be cut out and overlaid over a piece of metal of the appropriate thickness. This requires a moderate level of skill and patience.
3D printing
3D printing is rapidly evolving. 3D scanners are becoming increasingly cheaper. You can purchase a scanner for under 400 dollars that can quickly model a key. Once you have the key modeled, you can print a key using a 3d printer. A printed key is arguably not as robust as a metal key but it would definitely suffice for a one time entry.
Duplicates by number
I rented a storage unit. I needed some additional keys. The keys for that particular lock have numbers. I was able to go to Amazon and order a duplicate key using the number punched on my original key. This doesn’t even require a photo. Someone possessing the key, even for a minute or two, can copy the number and order a duplicate.
A dose of reality
There is a Youtube Channel – The Lockpicking lawyer. The guy routinely defeats almost any type of locks in minutes if not seconds. He often does this without any specialized lockpicking tools The reality is that locks are very good at keeping honest people out.
How to protect yourself
- Do not allow people to physically access your keys.
- Don’t have your house keys on the same ring as your car keys.
- Don’t leave your keys in a common area such as your desk at work.
- Consider your locks as a first line of defense. Additional security such as cameras and alarms can help provide peace of mind.
More reading
Some fun
On the other hand, Warren Zevon has an answer
“If you come calling
He’ll be mauling with intent to maim
Don’t knock on my door
If you don’t know my Rottweiler’s name
Halogen lights in the driveway
Guardian Angels living next door
One hundred pounds of unfriendly persuasion
Sleeping on the Florida porch