Lock decoding

Lock decoding is working out the combination of a lock or a key, that is, the depth of each cut or the height of each pin, so that it can be opened or the key reproduced without having the original. It can be done by reading the key by eye or from a photo, or with tools that read the inside of certain locks.

It has two sides. For a locksmith it is a working tool: it allows a lock to be opened or rebuilt without destroying it. For the owner it is a little known risk: a clear photo of your key may be enough to reproduce it.

Practical tips:

• Do not post photos of your keys or leave them in view on a bar table.
• Do not carry a tag with your address on your key ring.
• Choose cylinders with a protected profile key and an ownership card.

If you think someone may have seen or photographed your key, the safest thing is to change the cylinder. Take a look at our security cylinders.