High Security Locking Systems / Key Control Systems

High-Security Locks

Manual,  key-operated locks are the most common type of security device used to  control access through doors. While many companies have installed  sophisticated electronic access control systems, the manual lock is  still used on most doors. In addition, many doors that are controlled by  an electronic access control system still have a manual lock on them  that allows override using a key.

Most  manual locks that are in use today are using technology that was  developed more than eighty years ago. While this technology has proven  reliable, standard manual locks have many weaknesses.

Some of these weaknesses include:

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• Keys  to standard locks can be duplicated: Most standard locks use keys that  can be easily duplicated at locksmiths, hardware stores, and  self-service key copying kiosks. Stamping "Do Not Duplicate" on the key  offers little protection; most providers will duplicate the key despite  the warning. There are now even on-line services that will produce a  duplicate key if you send them a photo of the original key. Once the  owner has given out a standard key, he or she can never be sure just how  many copies of the key might have been made.
   

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• Standard  locks can be "picked" open: Most standard lock cylinders can be opened  using lock picks or a device known as a "pick gun". While some standard  locks require a level of skill to pick, many locks can be opened easily  by the novice. Inexpensive locks and locks that have been master-keyed  are often easiest to pick.
   
• Standard  locks can be "bumped" open: This technique involve the use of a "bump  key", something that can be purchased on the Internet, or made by simply  taking an existing key and filing it down. The bump key can be inserted  in a lock, given a few taps, and the lock will open. There are numerous  videos on-line that show this technique.
   

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• Standard  locks can be "drilled" open: Most standard lock cylinders can be easily  drilled open. This has become an increased problem since the  introduction of cordless drills.
   

To  solve many of the weaknesses of standard locks, "high-security" locks  have been developed. There are many different brands and styles of  high-security locks, but most offer the following benefits:

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• Patented  or Restricted Keys: Most high-security locks use keys that are patented  or otherwise restricted. Distribution of key blanks is strictly  limited, and special equipment is required to duplicate keys. Duplicate  keys are generally only available through qualified locksmiths or the  factory, and only upon written authorization of the facility owner or  his designated representatives. Because it is extremely difficult for an  unauthorized person to obtain a duplicate key, the facility owner can  be fairly confident of the number of keys to his facility that are in  circulation.
   
• Pick Resistant: Most high-security locks use special mechanisms that make them more difficult to "pick" open.
   

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• Bump Resistant: Most high-security locks cannot be "bumped" open using a bump key.
   
• Drill  Resistant: Most high-security locks are designed to resist attacks by  drilling. Protective measures can include the use of a hardened metal  case, special hardened metal pins or disks placed in the path where the  drill must penetrate, and special metal shields to prevent attack on the  lock itself. While most high-security locks can be drilled open, this  is a time consuming and difficult task.
   

ISS strongly recommends the use of high-security locks,  particularly on the exterior doors of your facility. High-security locks  are also a good choice for use on doors that lead into areas that  contain sensitive information or high-value assets.

Here are a few manufacturers of high-security locks:

ASSA Lock, Inc.

ASSA  is extremely popular in Europe and other parts of the world.  ASSA is  starting to become a widely-used brand of high-security lock in the USA.

Schlage

Schlage  Locks is a well-known manufacturer of residential and commercial lock  hardware. Schlage's high-security lock is called the "Primus". The  Primus system works primarily with locks manufactured by Schlage.  Versions of the Primus key can operate both the Primus lock and  Schlage's standard locks, making them ideal for use at facilities that  already have a Schlage lock system in place.

Medeco

Arguably  the most popular brand of high-security lock used in the USA. Largest  selection of high-security locks, lock cylinders, cam locks, and  padlocks. Medeco lock cylinders can be installed in most existing  locksets without requiring replacement of the lock itself.

Mul-T-Lock

Interesting product, relatively new in the United States. Now a division of Assa-Abloy.

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It  should be noted that high-security lock cylinders are not “unpickable”.  There are a number of highly-skilled individuals in the country who can  defeat them using specialized knowledge and the right tools. However,  overcoming these locks usually requires capabilities that go far beyond  those possessed by the average street criminal.

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