Lock Picking and Bypass Techniques Flashcards

A wafer lock is commonly found in which application?

Answer: Filing cabinets and automobile doors

Wafer locks are low-security locks commonly found in filing cabinets, desk drawers, and older automobile doors.

What is the key difference between a spring latch and a deadlatch regarding bypass vulnerability?

Answer: A deadlatch has an auxiliary plunger that locks the bolt when the door is closed, preventing loiding

A deadlatch plunger depresses when the door closes, locking the latch bolt solid and making it immune to loiding or credit-card bypass.

Which ALOA-recognized ethical principle requires locksmiths to confirm customer identity and legal right before bypassing a lock?

Answer: Authorization verification

Authorization verification is an ethical and legal requirement for locksmiths to confirm the requester has legal authority over the property before performing bypass services.

What does 'false set' mean during single-pin picking of a lock with security pins?

Answer: The plug partially rotates but stops because a spool pin is partially across the shear line

A false set occurs when a spool pin's narrow waist crosses the shear line, letting the plug rotate slightly but not fully open.

Which bypass technique involves inserting a thin tool above or below the latch bolt to manipulate the linkage inside the lock body?

Answer: Loiding/shimming the latch linkage

Some latches can be bypassed by inserting a thin shim or wire to directly actuate the latch retraction linkage inside the lock body.

What is the primary purpose of a key extractor tool?

Answer: To remove a broken key fragment from a lock cylinder without damaging the cylinder

Key extractors are hook or spiral tools inserted alongside or over the broken key fragment to grab and pull it out of the keyway.