3 Ways to Protect Yourself Against Online Key Copying

Worried about online key copying? Learn about 3 ways to reduce your risk.

You may have noticed that the media has been all abuzz lately with stories about the possible dangers of online key copying. Many a small-town investigative journalist has discovered that they can send photos of another person’s house keys to an online key copying service, receive their unauthorized duplicates days later, and gain entry to the person’s home.

However, it’s important not to blow the risks out of proportion. In order to receive key copies from an online provider, a would-be thief would have to have the opportunity to take clear, close-up photos of both the front and back of the key. They would also have to provide a name, address, and credit card number. In order to use the key, they would also have to figure out where you live. Due to these limitations, online key copying is not likely to catch on with your average burglar looking to commit a crime of opportunity. In other words, you don’t have to worry about someone surreptitiously snapping photos of your keys when you lay them on the table at your local coffee shop.

What you should worry about more is the possibility of someone you know making a copy of your keys in this manner. This might be anyone you entrust your keys to, such as a valet or auto repair tech, or a friend or family member left unattended with your keys.

Fortunately, there are some very easy steps you can take to prevent the possibility of falling victim to a crime involving the use of online key copies.

1. Guard your keys. The first step you can take is to simply be very careful who you allow to access your house key. Take your other keys off the ring when giving your car key to a valet or auto shop.
2. Install security hardware. Another step you should consider is installing security hardware such as a chain or a deadbolt on your door and using these protections whenever you are home. This is a wise move from a security standpoint regardless of whether you are really concerned about online key copying.
3. Get a high-security key. The single best way to protect yourself against the possibility of a home invasion using online key copies is to invest in high-security locks and keys. Just call RBM Lock & Key, and we can send a locksmith to your home to replace your standard door lock cylinders with high-security cylinders. The only way for anyone to get a copy of a key for these cylinders is to call us and prove their identity. Only then will we contact the lock manufacturer or supplier and get the key copy.