Advantages and Disadvantages of Duplicating Spare Keys
Mechanical and electronic keys of all types can be duplicated. Making duplicates of your business, home, or car keys is a two-edged sword with equal benefits and risks. Access can be improved in a family home or business by making key copies for occupants who require access. You may also need duplicates for emergency backups. However, multiple key copies increase security risk because there is an increased likelihood of losing or misplacing copies. Additionally, more key copies can also be made without your permission.
Providing multiple access points is still essential, from business collaboration to home sharing. This article examines the benefits and drawbacks of duplicating spare keys and how to reduce the risk of a security breach.
The Pros
It Makes Multiple Access Possible
You can make key copies for friends and family members, allowing them to enter your home even when you are absent. Also, your colleagues or employees in positions of authority may require key copies to keep the business running even when their superiors are absent. Key duplication offers freedom and convenience from various perspectives by enabling multiple access.
It Is Useful In Emergencies
Having multiple keys helps avoid lockouts. If you lose your keys and don't have a backup plan, you'll either have to break into your house or car or wait for a locksmith to come and open it, which is more expensive. You can quickly enter the property with an extra set of keys. If you have lost your keys and have not found them, or if they have been stolen, replacing the lock is recommended to prevent break-ins.
It saves Time and Money
The cost of creating spare keys varies based on the type of key and lock. However, duplicating a key is a quicker and simpler process compared to creating one for a keyless lock (for locksmith prices and services click here). By having extra keys, you can save both time and money. For instance, if you misplace your primary keys inside your home, you can use the spare to lock up and search for the lost keys later at your convenience.
Emergencies require prompt action, and it's always better to be prepared. In such situations, locksmiths tend to charge more than their usual rates. In contrast, having spare keys enables you to avoid the hassle and deal with more critical matters by providing immediate access. Spare keys also ensure that you can enter your property even when you can't afford to hire a locksmith.
The Cons
It Increases the Probability of Key Loss
Keys are frequently lost, and having multiple people have a copy of your house, business, or car keys increases the likelihood of losing one. People have varying levels of responsibility; not everyone will be as conscientious about key copies as you are. If one occupant discards their keys, a thief can easily access, duplicate, and return them without raising suspicion. As a result, it is easier for thieves to gain access when multiple people have a key than when only one has it.
Increased Risk of Deception
People have different personalities, which people with bad intentions can use to gain access to your property through social engineering. For example, thieves may disguise themselves as service providers from a legitimate company to deceive unsuspecting family members who may give them keys. They can then easily duplicate the key and break into the house.
What Can I Do To Avoid Unauthorized Key Duplication?
To enhance the security of your property, it's advisable to consult a skilled locksmith who can recommend the most fitting security measures for your unique needs. While it's impossible to completely eliminate the possibility of unauthorized key duplication, utilizing non-duplicate keys and restricted key systems can significantly reduce the risks. You may have seen keys with the words "do not duplicate" engraved on them but it is important to note that this warning is simply a request from the key system manager and can be easily ignored by a skilled locksmith with the right tools. To ensure the safety of your home, it may be worth considering affordable and effective keyless entry solutions as a reliable alternative. (For recommendations of keyless home entry solutions click here).
At the corporate level, restricted key systems can be used to track and limit key production. Only an authorized locksmith with permission from the key system's manager can cut a restricted key. To prevent unauthorized parties from accessing restricted keys. When dealing with restricted keys, locksmiths refer to the key creator's terms of use.
Recap
Creating spare keys can potentially compromise your security, but it is still a safer option than hiding keys. Thieves can easily find your hiding spots, whereas it is more difficult for them to trick someone into losing or giving away their own key.
