In the world of security, there are many myths that could end up costing you more than you realize. Whether you’re a business owner, homeowner, or just someone concerned about safety, believing these myths could lead to poor decisions and, ultimately, financial loss. In our new series, Myth Cracking, we’re here to separate fact from fiction and shed light on the truths behind common security misconceptions.
Our first post in this series will highlight myths that put you business or organization at high risk of theft or infiltration. We pose the question: Do you know who has copies of your keys?
Has your team ever given you an invoice from your locksmith that says something like “3 single-sided keys.” Keys to where? For whom? Why?
Or have you gotten a receipt in an expense report from Home Depot for key duplication. No further detail. Again, to where? For whom? Why?! How many keys have been made for this site in the past year? The past three? Where are they all going?!
Did you come into your position and inherit the master key system(s)? Do you know when it was first implemented? Has the Master Key ever been copied or given out? How would you know if it had?
All of this begs the question: Do you know who has copies of your keys?
Your key system is the foundation of your physical security. Yet, misconceptions about key duplication leave the majority of businesses vulnerable to unauthorized access and costly security breaches. Many of these happen due to scenarios like the above. Let’s crack some prevalent key myths that are making your sites unsecure.
Myth 1: Keys Stamped, “Do Not Duplicate,” Prevent Unauthorized Duplication
FALSE!
REALITY: No law or guideline prevents locksmiths from duplicating one of these keys! One of your employees can walk into any locksmith shop, hardware store, or self-serve kiosk and copy as many as they want. You will never know.
Myth 2: Only Authorized Employees Can Duplicate Keys
FALSE!
REALITY: Any employee with a key can ask to have it copied. They aren’t required to say who they are, who they represent, or even what the key is for. Unless they volunteer the information, we don’t know they are even with your company! Additionally, if someone outside your organization gains access to a key, they can also duplicate it without your knowledge. And worse? Anyone can have as many keys copied as they want. And you will be none the wiser.
Myth 3: My Locksmith Keeps a Record of What Keys They Cut for My Organization
FALSE!
REALITY: We don’t. Like you, we have no way of knowing who every person is and what every key is for. Unless the information is volunteered or the key is cut from our records of your master key system, we have no idea how many keys have been cut, by whom, or for what property. Without a system in place for this level of key control, we can’t track it for you.
Myths Cracked. I Have No Idea Who Has Copies of My Keys. Now What?
Well, the first step to solving a problem is realizing that you have one. So you’re on the right track! You didn’t get to where you are, at the top of the foodchain so to speak, by waiting for problems to arise and then reacting to them. You got there by making proactive decisions for the good of your organization.
Unfortunately, if you’re operating an unsecure key system, it’s only a matter of time until something is stolen or compromised.
The Answer? A Patented Key System.
Enter Medeco, a proprietary, high-security solution that only our authorized locksmiths can duplicate. With this system, only designated users can have keys duplicated, and each transaction requires the presentation of an identification card. For even greater control, we offer key management software to streamline your security.
But Won’t This Cost A Lot?
Not as much as you may think! Clients with budgetary concerns (who doesn’t have them these days?) benefit from a transition plan. Our team will guide you to the best possible plan for your organization. For example, Medeco has the largest commercial retrofit capability in the industry, which means you don’t have to replace your hardware, saving you thousands!
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How Can Able Help?
At Able Locksmiths, LLC, we specialize in high-security solutions in Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Our company is one of a select few that can provide these services! As an Assa Abloy Security Partner, we have the advanced training and expertise to ensure your business remains secure.
Take Action: Contact us today to learn how Medeco can enhance your security measures and safeguard your business from unauthorized key duplication. Let our experts design a comprehensive security strategy tailored to your specific needs.
Contact Us:
301-662-7275
info@ablelocksmithsllc.com
