Master Key Systems

Did you know that on average a master-key system begins to degrade in two to five years after implementation?

The short-term life cycle of a master key system can be attributed to several factors, one of which is the use of non-restricted keys. When non-restricted keys are used within a master key system, it becomes easier for unauthorized individuals to obtain copies of these keys. This poses a significant security risk as anyone with access to a non-restricted key can potentially compromise the entire system. It is crucial to ensure that restricted keys, which cannot be duplicated without proper authorization, are employed within the master key system to mitigate this risk and extend its life cycle.

Another factor that contributes to the short-term life cycle of a master key system is poor system design. If the system is not properly planned and implemented, it may suffer from weaknesses and vulnerabilities. These could include keyways that are susceptible to picking or the lack of appropriate key hierarchy, where certain keys have access to areas they shouldn’t. A poorly designed system not only compromises security but also increases the likelihood of system failures and the need for costly repairs or replacements. It is essential to consult with professional locksmiths experienced in master key systems to ensure a well-designed and robust system that stands the test of time.

Key Records

Furthermore, the maintenance of key records plays a vital role in the longevity of a master key system. Accurate and up-to-date key records are essential for proper system management and control. If key records are not maintained diligently, it becomes challenging to keep track of who has access to which areas and which keys are currently in circulation. This lack of oversight can lead to unauthorized duplication or loss of keys, compromising the system’s integrity. Regular audits of key records, along with strict protocols for key issuance and return, are crucial for preserving the longevity of a master key system and maintaining a high level of security.

If the up-to-date key records and system are not available to the third party locksmith there is no way to fully guarantee work integrity. The locksmith just makes a few keys work a lock doing only what is needed to collect payment. Nothing more. This work instantly compromises the system because multiple other keys already in play may, and often do, work the locks. The unintended number of keys that could now work the lock vary from a couple dozen to hundreds.

The time needed to back-engineer a system can take hours. Most third-party operators will not bother to do so because there is no money in it and/or the building owner/management does not want to pay for the time.

Lost Master Keys

Key control means good record keeping and restricted keys. ASSA is one of many options available.

Losing a master key poses an extremely dangerous security risk that should not be underestimated. The master key grants access to multiple locks within a system, potentially compromising the security of an entire building or facility. If a lost master key falls into the wrong hands, unauthorized individuals gain unrestricted access to various areas, increasing the likelihood of theft, vandalism, or even harm to individuals on the premises. This security breach can have devastating consequences for businesses, organizations, or residential complexes, as it bypasses the layers of security put in place to protect people and assets.

Furthermore, the repercussions of a lost master key extend beyond immediate threats. Even if the key is eventually recovered, the compromised security cannot be easily restored. Changing locks and reissuing new keys for an entire master key system can be a time-consuming, complex, and expensive process. During this transitional period, the vulnerability of the premises remains heightened, leaving the property susceptible to unauthorized access and potential criminal activities. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to have strict key control measures in place, such as secure key storage and protocols for reporting lost keys immediately, to minimize the potential damage caused by a lost master key.

Third Party Locksmiths

Any locksmith can take your existing master-key and re-key a lock without the benefit of the master-key system

A Neuter Bow Do Not Duplicate Key

record. What the third party locksmith cannot provide is the guarantee that the new key for the lock is NOT also a sub-level master-key that will open one or more locks in the same building.

Utilizing a third-party locksmith who does not have access to a properly designed master key system can have severe consequences on the system’s integrity. The risk lies in the potential introduction of cross-key problems, where a locksmith may unintentionally create key combinations that operate multiple locks beyond their intended access levels. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive areas, compromising security. Furthermore, an inexperienced locksmith may unknowingly introduce additional random keys that could operate the locks, further increasing the risk of unauthorized entry. To maintain the integrity of a master key system, it is crucial to work with trusted and knowledgeable locksmiths who have a thorough understanding of the system’s design and implementation, ensuring that the system functions as intended and provides the highest level of security.

The “My Key” Problem

Master systems immediately break down because of the “myKey” factor — as in just one person who does not need to carry a master-key in the execution of their job duties, insists that “My key needs to work this lock too.”

The very moment just one key must also work another, and differently keyed lock, the system’s security and stability and life-cycle degrades significantly. This is most certainly true after the location has been re-keyed to a newly designed master key system. The technical term is called “cross-keying”.

Cross-keying of even just one lock compromises the security of potentially multiple locks. It or any other key can become a sub-master at one level or another. Any cross-keyed cylinders in the master system MUST be accounted for and designed into the system  from the onset. By accounting for these keys at the beginning of a project the system degradation over time is minimized or eliminated.

A “My Key” problem also severely limits the capability of the system to handle business growth. Each cross-keyed lock automatically eliminates other possible key solutions both in the present requirements and future needs.

Your Solution To Secure Your Assets

ApexAccess is able to design and maintain a solid and long-term master-key system for your business. By accounting for the various access needs, providing the barest to the most liberal key usage and access — but also minimizing or eliminating the longer term risk to your company’s assets — we make every effort to secure your assets.

Contact ApexAccess today to resolve your security problems.

Call Us! (719) 203-1374