Key Control – Protecting Your Key Code
I have talked about in past blogs and how important Key Control is for overall key and lock security. In this blog I will discuss ways to control your lock or key code. To clear up some word definitions, lock code and key code is the same thing.
Medeco M3 Key
The lock and or key code is usually a “Blind” set of numbers or letters that lets the technician know how to cut the key and build the lock. The technician is able to look up the blind code in a chart and cross that over to the actual set of numbers needed to build the lock. These numbers are the lock pins used to build the lock and are also used to cut keys. This is the overall description of the lock or key code, from here the difference usually separates a high security lock from those of lower security.
If you purchase locks from a big box or hardware store the blind code is usually written on the box. If you need another key you just take your key to any store and they will make a duplicate. There is no security and anyone can make YOUR key.
When you purchase a high security lock, from Locking Systems International or LsiDepot.com the code is not written on the box. Instead that code is registered to you and you are given a card or tag with the blind code. If you need another key you must present that card and properly identify yourself before a duplicate key is cut.
We maintain your codes in a computer database that will provide Key Control by do the following:
- Only issue a high security blind lock code one time, the program prevents the code from ever being issued again
- Keep track of the persons you authorize to order cut keys
- Cut keys only for those persons on the authorized list
- Keep track of all keys cut for a particular code
- Provide the blind code on a tag and code card
- Provide and track a verbal authorization code (VAC) used to reorder keys
Tamper-Proof Key Rings
Some may ask is all of this necessary? The answer depends on what or who you are trying to protect. No matter how good and strong the lock is that you purchase, it is the Key Control that truly provides your security.
If you don’t have control of your key, you do not have control of your lock security.
For additional information please call us at 1.800.657.LOCK (5625) or go to LsiDepot.com.
